THE  LIBRARY  OF  THE 

UNIVERSITY  OF 

NORTH  CAROLINA 


FROM  THE  LIBRARY  OF 

ALEXANDER  B.  ANDREWS 

Class  of  1893 

TRUSTEE  OF  THE  UNIVERSITY 

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MASONIC    CODE 


NORTH  CAROLINA, 


CONTAINING 

THE    CONSTITUTION   AND    LAWS   OF     THE     JURISDICTION,    WITH     ANCIENT 
CONSTITUTIONS,    PUBLIC    CEREMONIES,    FORMS,    &C. 


COMPILED    AND    PUBLISHED 


BY   AUTHORITY   OF 

THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  NORTH  CAROLINA. 


RALEIGH,  N,  C. : 

JOHN  NICHOLS  &  CO.,  BOOK  AND  JOB  PRINTERS. 

1875. 


PREFACE 


GRAND  LODGE  OF  NORTH  CAROLINA,  F.\  A.-.  M.  •. 

Office  of  Grand  Secretary, 

Raleigh,  November  5th,  1875. 

This  work  is  designed  for  the  use,  and  to  meet  the  wants  and 
demands,  of  the  Fraternity  in  tins  Grand  Jurisdiction.  It  embraces 
the  Constitution  and  Laws  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  Ancient  Constitu- 
tions and  Charges,  all  public  ceremonies  and  necessary  blank  forms 
used  by  Lodges.  Much  care  has  been  taken  in  its  preparation  with 
a  view  to  make  it  entirely  reliable.  It  is  published  in  pursuance  of 
the  authority  given  by  the  Grand  Lodge  at  its  Annual  Communica- 
tion, December,  1874,  after  having  been  examined  and  approved 
by  the  committee  appointed  by  the  Grand  Lodge  for  that  purpose. 

DONALD  W.  BAIN, 

Grand  Secretary. 


INTRODUCTION 


Historical    Synopsis. 

The  early  history  of  Freemasonry  in  North  Carolina  is  not  as  defi- 
nitely and  satisfactorily  known  as  might  be  desired.  Such  information 
as  is  furnished  by  records  regarded  as  authentic,  is  embodied  in  the 
following  historical  synopsis.  The  statements  given  respecting  the  re- 
organization of  the  Grand  Lodge  in  1787,  are  compiled  from  the  ori- 
ginal official  records  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

There  exists  what  is  stated  to  be  "a  list  of  Regular  Lodges  accord- 
ing to  their  Seniority  and  Constitution,"  on  the  register  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  England,  published  in  1762,  which  contains  the  following 
entry:  "213.  A  Lodge  at  Wilmington,  on  Cape  Fear  River,  in  the 
Province  of  North   Carolina,  March,  1755." 

It  is  probable  that  this  was  the  first  Lodge  organized  in  the  State, 
as  the  Grand  Lodge  in  1791,  after  a  full  investigation  of  the  claims  of 
all  the  Lodges  to  priority,  in  the  award  of  the  numbers,  gave  this 
Lodge  (St.  Johns)  the  number  1,  although  the  honor  was  contested  by 
Royal  White  Hart  Lodge,  No.  2,  of  Halifax.  It  thus  appears  that  St. 
Johns  Lodge,  No.  1,  at  Wilmington,  has  claim  to  antiquity,  which  the 
records  sustain. 

The  "Ahiman  Rezon  and  Masonic  Ritual,"  published  at  Newbern, 
North  Carolina,  in  1805,  contains  an  address  by  Judge  Francois  Xav- 
ier  Martin,  from  which  the  following  extract  is  taken : 

"Masonry  crossed  the  Atlantic  with  the  first  settlers  of  the  British 
Colonies  in  America,  and  the  Grand  Masters  of  England  appointed 
Provincial  Grand  Masters  who  constituted  regular  Lodges  in  the  New 
World.  The  Carolinas  had  no  Provincial  Grand  Master  until  5736, 
when  the  Earl  of  Loudon  appointed  John  Hamerton  to  that  dignity. 
From  him  a  regular  succession  can  be  traced  to  Joseph  Montfort  who 
was  appointed  by  the  Duke  of  Beaufort  in  5769." 

Judge  Martin  was  an  accurate  historian,  as  well  as  a  zealous  Mason, 
and,  no  doubt,  had  good  reason  for  stating  that  John  Hamerton,  of 
South  Carolina,  was  appointed  Provincial  Grand  Master  for  the  Caro- 
linas. 

The  date  of  appointment  of  Joseph  Montfort,  as  stated  by  Judge 
Martin,  (1769)  does  not  accord  with  the  date  of  his  commission,  still 


il  Introduction. 

preserved,  which  is  14th  of  January,  1771,  but  the  mere  date  of  a  com- 
mission does  not  affect  the  statement  of  fact  of  appointment. 

The  records  of  St.  John's  Grand  Lodge  at  Boston,  Massachusetts, 
October  2d,  1167,  contains  this  statement,  which  is  published  in  the 
"  Cyclopedia  of  Masonry"  by  Robert  Macoy:  "A  dispensation  was 
made  out  for  the  Eight  Worshipful  Thomas  Cooper,  Master  of  Pitt 
County  Lodge,  in  North  Carolina,  constituting  him  Deputy  Grand 
Master  of  that  Province.  And  he  was  commissioned  with  power  to 
congregate  all  the  brethren  there  residing,  or  who  should  afterward 
reside  in  said  Province,  into  one  or  more  lodges  as  he  should  think 
fit,  and  in  such  place  or  places  within  the  same  as  should  most  redound 
to  the  benefit  of  Masonry."  The  first  Lodge  established  under  this 
authority  was   it  is  said,  at  Crown  Point,  in  Pitt  County. 

On  the  14th  of  January,  1771,  the  following  authority  was  issued  by 
the  command  of  the  Grand  Master  of  England: 

Beaufort,  G.  M. 

TO  ALL  AND  EVERT  our  Right  Worshipful  and 
Loving  Brethren.  WE,  Henry  Somerset,  Duke  of  Beau- 
fort, Marquis  and  Earl  of  Worcester,  Earl  of  Glamorgan, 
Viscount  Grosmont,  Baron  Herbert,  Lord  of  Raglaud,  Chepston  and 
Gower,  Baron  Beaufort  of  Caldeeol  Castle,  Grand  Master  of  theMost 
Ancient  and  Honorable  Society  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons,  Greet- 
ing: 

KNOW  YE  THAT  WE,  of  the  great  Trust  and  Confidence  reposed 
in  our  Right  Worshipful  and  well  beloved  Brother  Joseph  Montfort, 
Esquire,  of  Halifax,  in  the  Province  of  North  Carolina,  in  AMERICA, 
do  hereby  constitute  and  appoint  him  the  said  JOSEPH  MOJMTFORT, 
Provincial  Grand  Master  of' and  for  AMERICA  »ith  full  power  and 
Authority  in  due  form  to  make  Masons  and  Constitute  and  Regulate 
Lodges  as  Occasion  may  Require.  And  also  to  do  and  execute  all 
and  every  such  other  acts  and  things  appertaining  to  the  said  Office 
as  usually  have  been  and  ought  to  be  done  and  executed  by  other  Pro- 
vincial Grand  Masters,  he  the  said  JOSEPH  MONTFORT  taking  spe- 
cial care  that  all  and  every,  the  Members  of  every  Lodge  he  shall  con- 
stitute, have  been  regularly  made  Masons  and  that  they  do  observe, 
perforin  and  keep  all  and  every  the  Rules,  Orders  and  Regulations 
contained  in  the  Book  of  Constitutions  (except  such  as  have  been  or 
may  be  repealed  at  any  Quarterly  Communication  or  other  general 
meeting  together)  also  with  all  such  other  Rules,  Orders.  Regulations 
and  Instructions  as  shall  from  time  to  time  be  transmitted  by  us,  or 
by  the  Honorable  CHARLES  DILLON  our  Deputy  or  by  any  of  our 
Successors,  Grand  Masters  or  their  Deputies  for  the  time  being.  Aud 
we  hereby  will  and  require  you  our  said  Provincial  Grand  Master  to 
cause  four  quarterly  communications  to  be  held  yearly,  one  whereof  to 
be  upon  or  as  near  the  feast  day  of  Saint  John  the  Baptist  as  conve- 
niently may  be,  and  that  you  promote  on  those  and  all  other  occasions 
whatever  may  be  for  the  honour  and  Advantage  of  Masonry  and  the 
Benefit  of  the  Grand  Charity,  and  that  you  yearly  send  to  us  or  our  suc- 
cessor Grand  Master  an  Account  in  Writing  of  the  proceedings  therein 
and  also  of  what  Lodges  you  constitute  and  when  and  where  held  with 


Introduction.  Hi 

a  list  of  the  members  thereof,  and  copies  of  all  such  Rules,  Orders,  Re- 
gulations as  shall  lie  made  for  the  good  Government  of  the  same,  with 
whatever  else  you  shall  do  by  virtue  of  these  presents.  And,  that  you 
at  the  same  time  remit  to  the  Treasurer  of  the  Society  for  the  time 
being  at,  London,  three  pounds,  three  shillings  sterling  for  every  Lodge 
you  shall  constitute,  for  the  use  of  the  Grand  Charity  and  other  neces- 
sary purposes. 

Given  at  London  under  our  hand  and  seal  of  Masonry  this  14th  day 
of  January,  A.  L.  5771,  A.  D.  1771. 

By  the  <jB.akd  Master's  Command 
Witness:  CHAS.  DILLON,   D    G.  M. 

JAS.  HESELTINE,   G.   S. 

Under  this  authority,  Joseph  Montfort  established  Lodges  in  North 
Carolina.  The  present  Royal  White  Hart  Lodge,  No.  2,  at  Halifax, 
derived  its  original  warrant  from  this  source.  It  was  registered  on 
the  rolls  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  England  as  No.  403,  which  number  it 
appears  to  have  sustained  when  the  Grand  Lodge  of  North  Carolina 
was  re-organized  in  1787.  This  indicates,  also,  an  existence  under  the 
authority  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  England,  after  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
North  Carolina  had  ceased  to  exist,  during  and  subsequent  to  the  Rev- 
olutionary war. 

From  the  best  evidence  existing,  it  seems  that  most  of  the  Lodges 
which  organized  the  Grand  Lodge  in  1771,  derived  their  authority 
from  the  Grand  Lodge  of  England,  but  other  Lodges  were,  no  doubt, 
established  under  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Scotland,  if  not  under  other 
authority  also.  The  disputes  which  arose  between  them  as  to  priority 
of  number,  after  the  re-organization  of  the  Grand  Lodge  in  1787,  in- 
dicates this 

It  is  evident  that  a  Grand  Lodge  was  organized  in  North  Carolina 
in  1771,  but  the  precise  date  of  its  organization  is  not  known.  It  ap- 
pears of  record,  however,  that  it  was  "first  constituted  A.  D.  1771," 
and  that  it  "convened  occasionally  at  Newbern  andEdenton,  at  which 
latter  place  the  records  were  deposited  previous  to  the  Revolutionary 
war.  During  the  contest  the  records  were  destroyed  by  the  British 
army,  and  the  meetings  of  the  Grand  Lodge  suspended." 

A  convention  was  held  in  the  town  of  Tarborough,  commencing  De- 
cember 9th,  1787,  for  the  purpose  of  re-organizing  the  Grand  Lodge. 

The  following  are  its  first  day's  proceedings: 

"  Tarborough,  December  the  9th,  A.  L.  5787. 

At  a  Convention  of  Delegates  of  the  several  Lodges  in  the  State  of 
North  Carolina,  for  the  purpose  of  electing  a  Grand  Master  and  other 
Grand  Officers  for  the  same,  the  Brethren  then  assembled  unanimously 
appointed 

Brother  John  Mare,  in  the  Chair. 


iv  Introduction. 

Brother  Benjamin  Manchester,  Secretary  to  the  present  Convention. 
The  following  Lodges  by  their  Delegates  produced  Credentials,  viz: 

Unanimity — Brothers  John  Mare,  Stephen  Cabarrus. 

St.  John's,  No.  2 — Brothers  Manchester,  Abner  Neale. 

Royal  Edwin,  No.  4 — Brothers  John  Johnston,   Andrew  Oliver,   Silas 
White  Arnett. 

Royal  White  Hart,  No.  403— Brothers  William  Muir, McDougall, 

John  Geddy. 

Royal  William,  No.  8 — Brothers  Hardy  Murfree,  Patrick  Garvey,  Wil- 
liam Little. 

Union,  at  Fayette ville — Brother  James  Porterfleld. 

Blandford  Bute — Brothers  Edward  Jones,  William  Johnston. 
Old  Cone — Brother  John  Armstrong 

On  motion,  agreed,  That  the  proceedings  of  this  night  be  binding, 
and  that  the  following  rules  be  observed  during  the  sitting  of  this 
Convention,  to-wit:  (Nine  rules  for  the  government  of  the  Conven- 
tion were  adopted.) 

The  Convention  then  adjourned  till  to-morrow,  7  o'clock." 

The  Convention  continued  its  sittings  until  the  13th  of  December. 

On  tbe  11th,  Grand  Officers  were  elected  as  follows: 

Samuel  Johnston,  ...  Grand  Master. 

Richard  Caswell,  -  -  Deputy  Grand  Master. 

Richard  Ellis,         ....  Senior  Grand  Warden. 

Michael  Payne,  ....  Junior  Grand  Warden. 

Abner  Neale,  ....  Grand  Treasurer. 

James  Glasgow,  ....  Grand  Secretary. 

They  were  installed  on  the  12th. 

At  the  Grand  Lodge  held  at  Fayetteville,  December  9th,  1790,  the 
following  resolution  was  passed: 

" Resolved,  That  the  Secretary  be  directed  to  write  to  the  different 
Lodges  under  the  jurisdiction  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  requesting  them 
to  send  delegates  to  Newbern,  there  to  meet  the  Grand  Lodge  on  the 
24th  day  of  June  next,  and  to  forward  their  claims  for  precedency  and 
to  receive  their  charters  agreeable  thereto,  and  at  the  same  time  to 
notice  them,  that  this  is  the  last  time  their  claims  to  that  effect  can  be 
received,  but  that  those  neglecting  to  take  advantage  of  this  notice 
must  hereafter  take  their  numbers  as  they  apply." 

Of  the  communication  held  at  Newbern  on  the  25th  day  of  June, 
1791,  the  following  record  exists: 


Introduction.  v 

"Pursuant  to  a  resolution  of  the  Grand  Lodge  at  Fayettevdle  on 
the  9th  day  of  December  last,  the  "Lodge"  proceeded  to  number  the 
different  Lodges  agreeable  to  the  claims  of  precedency  from  the  differ- 
ent Lodges  as  follows,  to-wit: 

Saint  John's,  No.  1,  Wilmington;  Royal  White  Hart,  No.  2,  Hali- 
fax ;  Saint  John's,  No.  3,  Newbern ;  Saint  John's,  No.  4,  Kinston ; 
Royal  Edwin,  No.  5,  Windsor;  Royal  William,  No.  6,  Winton ;  Una- 
nimity, No.  7,  Edenton;  Phoenix,  No.  8,  Fayetteville;  Old  Cone,  No. 
9,  Salisbury;  Johnston  Caswell,  No.  10,  Warrenton  ;  Caswell  Brother- 
hood, No.  11,  Caswell;  Independence,  No.  12,  Chatham;  Saint  John's, 
No.  13,  Duplin;  Rutherford  Fellowship,  No.  14,  Rutherford;  Wash- 
ington, No.  15,  Beaufort  county;  Saint  Tammany,  No.  16,  Martin 
county;  American  George,  No.  17,  Hertford  county;  King  Solomon. 
No.  18,  Jones  county. 

"Resolved,  That  the  several  Lodges  receive  their  charters  as  speed- 
ily as  convenient,  from  the  Grand  Lodge,  numbered  according  to  the 
order  which  they  appear  on  the  records  of  this  Grand  Lodge  taken  this 
day." 

It  is  evident  that  all  the  Lodges  mentioned  above  existed  at,  or 
previous  to,  the  time  of  the  reorganization  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  ex- 
cept numbers  11  to  18  both  inclusive,  which  were  chartered  after- 
wards, as  the  first  record  of  the  formation  of  new  Lodges  after  the  re- 
organization, exists  under  date  17th  of  November,  1788,  wrhen  peti- 
tions were  presented  to  the  Grand  Lodge  for  "  warrants  "  for  a  Lodge 
in  Caswell  county  and  one  in  Rutherford  county  (afterwards  number- 
ed 11  and  14  respectively,  when  charters  were  granted),  which,  on  the 
next  day,  were  ordered  to  be  issued. 

The  succeeding  history  of  the  Grand  Lodge  and  origin  of  its  Subor- 
dinates is  contained  in  the  original  records  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and 
is  complete  to  the  present  date. 

The  foregoing  pages  embrace  so  much  of  the  early  history  as  the 
limited  space  of  a  mere  introduction  will  admit. 


CONSTITUTION 


ARTICLE  I. 

Grand  Lodge--Officers  of  and  Representation  in. 

Section  1.  The  Grand  Lodge  shall  consist  of  a  Grand  Master, 
Deputy  Grand  Master,  Grand  Senior,  and  Grand  Junior  Wardens, 
Grand  Treasurer,  Grand  Secretary,  Grand  Senior,  and  Grand  Junior 
Deacons,  and  the  Masters  and  Wardens,  for  the  time  being,  of  the 
several  Lodges  within  this  State,  or  Representative  or  Representa- 
tives, specially  appointed  for  that  purpose,  who  shall  be  considered  as 
their  proxy,  or  proxies,  and  the  Past  Grand  Officers  of  the  Grand 
Lodge — that  is  to  say,  Past  Grand  Masters,  Past  Grand  Senior  and 
Junior  Wardens,  Grand  Treasurers  and  Grand  Secretaries — and  the 
said  enumerated  officers  and  persons  shall  be  the  only  members  and 
voters  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  The  Master  and  Wardens  of  every 
Lodge  are  the  Representatives  thereof  in  the  Grand  Lodge,  or  their 
proxy  or  proxies,  or  the  Representative  or  Representatives  constituted 
aforesaid. 

Proxies  and  Number  of  Votes  Prescribed. 

Sec.  2.  In  all  cases  where  special  Representatives  shall  not  be  ap- 
pointed by  any  Subordinate  Lodge,  and  the  Master  and  Wardens  of 
any  Lodge  cannot,  personally,  attend  the  Grand  Lodge,  they  shall 
have  the  privilege  of  constituting  a  proxy;  and  such  proxy  shall  be  a 
Master  Mason,  and  a  member  of  some  Lodge  under  this  jurisdiction  ; 
and  he  or  they  shall  be  entitled  to  the  same  number  of  votes  as  his  or 
their  constituent  or  constituents.     (By-Laws,  Art.  IV.) 

Grand  Officers  Ineligible  as  Representatives — Grand   Masters,   &c,  to 
be  Past  Masters. 

Sec.  3.  No  Grand  Master,  Deputy  Grand  Master,  or  Grand  Warden 
shall,  during  his  continuance  in  office,  be  Master  or  Warden  to,  or 
Representative  of,  a  particular  Lodge  .;  and  no  brother  shall  be  eligi- 
ble to  either  of  the  said  offices,  who  is  not  a  Past  Master. 


6  Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina. 

Who  Eligible  to  Membership  or  Office  in  Grand  Lodge. 

Sec.  4.  None  but  Master  Masons,  members  of  Regular  Lodges, 
shall  be  members  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  or  be  eligible  to  any  office  or 
appointment  therein. 


ARTICLE  II. 

Grand  Master— Election  of. 

Section  1.  A  Grand  Master  shall  be  annually  chosen,  to-wit — at 
the  Annual  Communication ;  and  no  person  shall  fill  the  office  more 
than  three  years  successively,  unless  by  a  unanimous  vote. 

Sec.  2.  In  the  electiou  of  Grand  Master,  a  ballot  at  large  shall  be 
taken,  (every  voter  writing  the  name  of  the  candidate  he  thinks  best 
qualified)  and  the  brother  who  has  two-thirds  of  the  votes  present, 
shall  be  declared  Grand  Master  elect,  and  installed  in  due  form, 
according  to  ancient  usage. 

Grand  Officers  may  be  Installed  by  Proxy. 

Sec.  3.  In  cases  of  sickness,  or  necessary  absence,  the  Grand 
Master,  or  any  other  Grand  officer,  may  be  installed  by  proxy  ;  but 
whoever  represents  them  must  have  sustained  the  office  to  which  such 
absent  officer  is  to  be  installed,  or  such  office  as  might  have  entitled 
him  to  fill  the  chair  in  the  absence  of  the  Grand  Master. 

Grand  Officers  Appointed  by  Grand  Master. 

Sec  4.  The  Grand  Master  shall  appoint  and  commission  his  Depu- 
ty and  the  Grand  Lecturers,  under  the  seal  of  the  Grand  Lodge  ; 
and  he  shall  appoint  and  declare  the  Grand  Chaplains,  Grand  Dea- 
cons, the  Grand  Steward,  the  Grand  Marshal,  the  Grand  Pusuivant, 
Grand  Sword  Bearer,  and  Grand  Tiler,  which  appointments  shall  be 
entered  on  the  minutes  of  the  Grand  Lodge  ;  and  in  case  any  other 
office  shall  become  vacant  by  death,  resignation,  or  otherwise,  the 
Grand  Master,  for  the  time,  shall  fill  such  vacancy  by  his  nomination. 

Who  Eligible  to  Preside  in  Grand  Lodge. 

Sec  5.  The  Grand  Master  shall,  when  present,  indispensably  fill 
the  chair  ;  in  his  absence,  the  Deputy  Grand  Master  ;  in  the  absence 
of  both,  the  Senior  Grand  Warden ;  in  the  absence  of  these,  the 
Junior  Grand  Warden  ;  and,  in  the  case  of  the  absence  of  all 
these   officers,    the    eldest    Grand  Officer  in   the  Lodge   is  to  fill  the 


Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina.  7 

chair.  And  that  the  Grand  Lodge  may  always  appear  in  clue  form, 
the  presiding  officer  shall  wear  the  jewel  of  the  Grand  Master,  and 
all  others  the  jewels  of  the  offices  they  respectively  represent. 

Powers  and  Prerogatives  of  Grand  Master. 

Sec.  6.  The  Grand  Master  enjoys  all  the  powers  and  prerogatives 
conferred  by  the  Ancient  Constitutions  and  usages  of  the  Craft.  He 
has  power  absolutely  to  prohibit  the  introduction  of  any  matter  con- 
flicting with  the  spirit  of  Masonry,  or  with  Grand  Lodge  regulations; 
and  his  decision  on  all  questions  shall  be  final,  unless  reversed  by  a 
vote  of  two-thirds  of  the  members  present.  He  may  convene  any 
Lodge  within  his  jurisdiction,  preside  therein,  (with  his  officers  or 
otherwise, )  inspect  their  proceedings,  and  correct  all  irregularities, 
or  he  may  appoint  a  suitable  brother  for  that  purpose.  For  any  dere- 
liction of  duly,  or  other  unmasouic  conduct,  he  may  suspend  a  broth- 
er, whatever  may  be  his  grade,  or  arrest  the  Charter  of  a  Lodge,  un- 
til the  ensuing  session  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  before  which  he  shall  pre- 
sent all  the  circumstances  connected  with  the  case.  He  may,  also, 
grant  Dispensations  on  all  proper  occasions,  and  do  all  such  other  acts 
and  deeds  as  are  warranted  or  required  of  him  by  the  regulations  and 
ancient  usages  of  the  Fraternity. 

Obligation  of  Officers  at  Installation. 

Sec.  7.  The  Grand  Master,  Deputy  Grand  Master  and  Grand  War- 
dens, shall,  severally,  at  the  time  of  their  installation,  make  the  fol- 
lowing declaration  :  "  I  solemnly  promise,  upon  the  honor  of  a  Ma- 
son, that,  in  the  office  of ,  I  will,  according   to   the  best  of   my 

abilities,  strictly  comply  with  the  laws  and  regulations  of  this  Grand 
Lodge,  and  other  ancient  Masonic  usages." 


ARTICLE  III. 

Grand  Wardens-  Election  of. 

The  Grand  Wardens  shall  be  chosen  annually,  by   a    majority   of 
written  votes,  and  must  be  Past  Masters. 


ARTICLE  IV. 

Grand  Treasurer — Election  and  Duties  of. 

Section  1.  The  Grand   Treasurer   shall  be   chosen  annually,  by  a 
majority  of  written  votes. 


8  Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina. 

Sec.  2.  He  must  be  a  brother  of  good  worldly  substance,  and  to 
him  shall  be  committed  the  moneys  belonging  to  the  Grand  Lodge. 
He  shall  always  keep  a  fair  record  of  his  accounts  and  transactions, 
and  the  uses  to  which  the  moneys  are  appropriated;  and  shall  lay  the 
same,  when  required,  before  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  account  for  the 
moneys,  as  may  be  directed. 


ARTICLE  V. 

Grand  Secretary — Election  and  Duties  of. 

Section  1.  The  Grand  Secretary  shall  be  chosen  annually,   by  a 
majority  of  written  votes. 

Sec.  2.  He  must  be  a  brother  who  can  write  a  fair  and  legible  hand, 
and  shall  keep  accurate  records  of  all  the  transactions  of  the  Grand 
Lodge.  He  shall  present  all  the  votes  and  orders  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
after  they  are  entered,  to  the  Grand  Master  for  his  approbation  and  . 
signature.  He  shall  issue  summonses,  as  the  Grand  Master  may 
direct ;  and  shall  give  a  seasonable  notice  in  at  least  one  public  news- 
paper of  every  stated  meeting  of  the  Grand  Lodge;  and  he  shall  be 
rewarded  for  his  services  in  such  manner  as  the  Grand  Lodge  may 
direct. 


ARTICLE  VI. 

OTHER   GRAND  OFFICERS— DUTIES  OF. 

Grand  Chaplains. 

Section  1.  The  Grand  Chaplains,  when  called  upon,  are  to  perform 
all  suitable  clerical  duties. 

Grand  Marshal. 

Sec.  2.  The  Grand  Marshal  shall  attend  to  the  organization  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  collect  petitions  and  communications,  introduce  visitors, 
direct  the  formation  of  processions,  and  execute  commands  of  the 
Grand  Master. 

Grand  Deacons. 

Sec.  3.  The  Grand  Deacons  shall  occupy  their  proper  stations,  and 
each  attend  to  his  particular  duty. 


Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina.  9 

Grand  Sword-Bearer  and  Pursuivant. 

Sec.  4.  The  Grand  Sword-Bearer  and  Pursuivant  shall  act  as  assis- 
tants to  the  Grand  Marshal. 

Grand  Steward  and  Tiler. 

Sec.  5.  The  Grand  Steward  and  Tiler  shall  attend  every  call  of  the 
Grand  Master,  and  be  present  at  every  Grand  Communication;  for 
which  services  a  suitable  compensation  shall  be  made.  He  shall 
attend  yearly,  in  season,  to  have  the  Grand  Lodge  room  properly 
prepared  for  the  reception  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 


ARTICLE  VII. 

Grand  Lecturers  — Duties  of. 

The  Grand  Lecturers  shall  qualify  themselves  for  their  duties,  and 
attend  the  meetings  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  exemplify  the  work  and 
lectures  of  the  several  degrees,  when  required.  They  shall  visit  the 
several  Lodges  when  required — lecture  and  instruct  them  in  work, 
and  see  that  they  are  properly  regulated  and  conducted.  For  their 
services  they  shall  be  suitably  compensated  in  such  manner  as  the 
Grand  Lodge  may  provide.      (^>ee  By  Laws,  Art.  1,  Sees.  21  and  22. 


ARTICLE  VIII. 

Grand  Lodge — Communications  of. 

Section  1.  A  Grand  Lodge  shall  be  held  at  least  once  in  every  year, 
and  the  Grand  Master  may  call  special  meetings  whenever  he  shall 
deem  it  advisable. 

Manner  of  Votine  in. 

Sec.  2.  In  the  adoption  of  this  Constitution,  and  all  amendments 
hereafter  made,  and  in  the  election  of  officers,  and  all  other  matters 
in  the  Grand  Lodge,  (when  demanded,)  the  votes  shall  be  taken  ac- 
cording to  the  rights  of  the  several  Lodges,  and  the  members  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  that  is  to  say,  every  Lodge  present  by  its  representation, 
shall  be  entitled  to  three  votes,  whether  represented  by  one  or  more 
brethren ;  and  every  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge  otherwise  entitled 
than  by  being  a  representative  of  a  particular  Lodge,  shall  have  one 


10  Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina. 

vote;  provided  this  shall  in  no  wise  affect  any  rights  of  the  Past 
Grand  officers.  In  cases  of  a  tie,  the  brother  in  the  chair  shall  have 
the  casting  vote. 


ARTICLE  IX. 

Powers  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Section  1.  The  Grand  Lodge  shall  be  the  supreme  Masonic  author- 
ity within  the  State  of  North  Carolina,  and  shall  claim  and  exercise 
all  the  original  essential  powers,  privileges,  rights  and  authority 
appertaining  to  the  ancient  craft;  and  shall,  moreover,  rank  on  an 
equality  with  all  other  regularly  constituted  Grand  Lodges;  and  be 
empowered  to  legislate  upon  all  matters  of  Masonic  government,  and 
make  all  necessary  regulations  for  its  own  government  and  that  of  its 
subordinates. 

Sec.  2.  The  Grand  Lodge  shall  have  power  by  charter,  under 
their  seal,  to  constitute  new  Lodges,  to  establish  an  uniform  mode  of 
working  in  all  the  Lodges  in  this  State,  and  superintend  and  regulate 
the  general  police  of  Masonry,  according  to  the  ancient  usages  and 
customs  of  Masons, — carefully  regarding  the  old   land-marks,   which 

are,  on  no  account,  to  be  removed  or  defaced. 

I 


ARTICLE  X. 

New  Lodges  — How  Established. 

No  new  charter  shall  be  granted,  but  upon  the  petition  of  at  least 
seven  known  and  approved  Master  Masons ;  nor  shall  a  new  warrant 
be  issued  to  any  number  of  Masons,  residing  within  less  than  ten 
miles  of  the  usual  place  of  meeting  of  any  regularly  established  Lodge, 
unless  important  benefits  are  to  be  derived  therefrom;  and  the  peti- 
tion shall  contain  the  causes  which  render  it  expedient  that  such  a 
charter  should  be  granted,  with  the  nomination  of  the  Master  and 
Wardens;  and  the  petition  shall  be  approved  by  some  regular  consti- 
tuted Lodge  in  the  vicinity  of  the  petitioners. 


Masonic  Code  of  Noi-th  Carolina.  11 

ARTICLE  XI. 

Amendments —How  Made. 

No  amendment  to  this  Constitution  shall  be  adopted  by  the  Grand 
Lodge,  until  the  same,  after  being  proposed  in  writing  to  the  Grand 
Lodge,  and  thereby  concurred  with,  shall  be  submitted  to  the  consid- 
eration of  all  the  individual  Lodges,  and  adopted  by  at  least  two- 
thirds  of  all  the  said  Lodges. 


BY-LAWS  AND  EDICTS  (IF  IDE  GP.il  LODGE. 


ARTICLE   I. 

GRAND  OFFICERS. 
Time  for  Election  of. 

Section  1.  The  election  of  Grand  Officers  shall  take  place  on  the 
second  day  of  the  Annual  Communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Certificate  of  Election. 

Sec.  2.  The  Grand  Officers  elected  and  appointed  at  each  Annua 
Communication  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  shall  be  furnished  with  certifi- 
cates of  election  or  appointment,  signed  by  the  Grand  Master  and 
Wardens,  and  verified  by  the  signature  of  the  Grand  Secretary,  and 
the  seal  of  the  Grand  Lodge.      (Sees.  9  and  13.) 

Grand  Master. 

To  Provide  Stationery  and  Seals. 

Sec.  3  The  Grand  Master  is  authorized  to  furnish  such  stationery 
as  he  may  deem  necessary  for  himself  and  the  Grand  Secretary,  in 
their  official  correspondence;  and  also  to  procure  seals  to  be  used  in 
conducting  the  correspondence  of  their  respective  offices. 

To  Appoint  Private  Secretary. 

Sec.  4.  The  Grand  Master  may  appoint  a  Private  Secretary  and  fix 
his  compensation,  provided  it  shall  not  exceed  one  hundred  dollars 
per  annum. 

Expenses  of. 

Sec.  5.  The  necessary  expenses  of  the  Grand  Master  incurred  in  the 
discharge  of  the  duties  of  his  office  shall  be  allowed  by  the  Grand 
Lodge.     (Sec.  9,  Art.  iv.) 

Grand  Treasurer. 

To  Furnish  Statement  of  Accounts. 

Sec.  6.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Grand  Treasurer  at  each  Annual 

3 


lJj.  Masonic  Code  of  Aorth,  Carolina. 

Communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  to  flic  with  the  Grand  £ecreta:y, 
a  statement  of  the  amount  of  moneys  and  other  funds  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  in  his  Lauds,  which  statement  the  Grand  Secretary  shall  file 
among  his  papers,  and  preserve  for  the  use  of  the  Grand  Lodge 

To  Give  Bond. 

Sec.  7.  The  Grand  Treasurer  shall  give  bond  in  the  penal  sum  of 
one  thousand  dollars,  faithfully  to  discharge  his  duties  and  account 
for  all  moneys  and  effects  that  may  come  into  his  hands  belonging  to 
the  Grand  Lodge. 

Payment  rf  Grand  Secretary's  Salary. 

Sec.  8.  The  Grand  Treasurer  shall  not  be  authorized  to  pay  over  to 
the  Grand  Secretary  any  appropriation  which  the  Grand  Lodge  may 
have  made,  as  compensation  to  him  for  discharging  the  duties  of  his 
office,  until  he  shall  have  produced  the  certificate  of  the  committee 
on  his  books  that  said  duties  were  duly  and  truly  performed. 

To  Pay  Expenses  of  Grand  Officers. 

Sec.  9.  The  Grand  Treasurer  shall,  at  each  Annual  Communication, 
tender  to  the  Grand  Cfiicers  of  the  preceding  Masonic  year,  their 
expenses  incurred  in  attending  said  Annual  Communication. 

To  Procure  Portraits  of  Grand  and  Past  Grand  Masters. 

Sec.  10.  The  Grand  Treasurer  and  Grand  Secretary  shall  be  a 
standing  committee  to  procure  the.  portraits  of  the  Grand  Masters  of 
this  State,  beginning  with  the  year  1886,  and  all  living  Past  Grand 
Masters,  whose  portraits  can  be  obtained,  and  the  same,  when,  pro- 
cured, shall  be  suitably  framed  and  hung  up  in  the  Grand  Lodge 
Hall.  Such  sums  of  money  shall  lie  appropriated  as  may  be  necessary 
to  carry  into  effect  this  section. 

Compensation  of. 

Sec.  11.  The  compensation  of  the  Grand  Treasurer  shall  be  one 
hundred  and  fifty  dollars  per  annum,  unless  the  receipts  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  shall  be  less  than  three  thousand  dollars  per  annum,  when  he 
shall  receive  five  per  cent,  commissions. 

Grand  Secretary. 

Salary  and  Fees  of. 

Sec.  12.  The  Grand  Secretary  shall  receive  an  annual  salary  of 
seven  hundred  dollars,  as  compensation  for  his  services;  in  addition 


Masonic  Cuclti  of  .Surtli  Carolina.  15 

to  which  he  shall  he  entitled  to  or.e  dollar  for  engrossing  a  dispensa- 
tion or  charter  and  affixing  seal  of  the  Grand  Lodge  to  the  same;  one 
dollar  for  every  certificate  or  document  requiring  seal,  and  the  fees 
prescribed  in  sections  1  and  2  of  Article  iii,  of  the  By-Laws.  Diplo- 
mas and  papers  required  by  the  Grand  Master  are  excepted. 

To  Transmit  Names,  &c  ,  of  Grand  Officers  to  other  Grand  Lodges. 

Sec.  13.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Grand  Secretary,  after  the 
choice  of  Grand  Officers  each  year,  to  transmit  to  the  Grand  Lodges 
with  which  this  Grand  Lodge  is  in  correspondence,  the  names  and 
signatures  of  the  Grand  Master,  Deputy  Grand  Master,  Grand  War- 
dens, Grand  Treasurer  and  Grand  Secretary,  written  in  their  own 
proper  hands,  and  authenticated  under  Ins  hand,  and  the  seal  of  the 
Grand  Lodge.  He  shall  n Is  >  transmit  at  the  same  time  an  attested 
copy  of  all  new  general  regulations  adopted. 

To  Make  Reports —  Postage  Allowed. 

Se  '.  14.  The  Grand  Secretary  shall,  at  i  ach  Annual  Communication, 
submit  a  report  in  writing,  of  the  transactions  of  his  office  during  the 
preceding  Masonic  year.  Postage  expenses  incurred  in  his  official 
duties  shall  be  paid  by  the  Grand  Treasurer,  and  allowed  to  him  in 
the  settlement  of  his  accounts. 

To  Provide  Dispensations  and  Charters. 

Sec.  15.  The  Grand  Secretary  shall  have  blank  Dispensations  and 
Charters  printed  from  time  to  time  as  they  may  be  needed,  and  the 
cost  of  the  same  shall  be  paid  by  the  Grand  Treasurer. 

To  Give  Bend. 

Sec.  16.  The  Grand  Secretary  shall  give  a  bond  in  the  penal  sum 
of  five  hundred  dollars  for  the  faithful  discharge  of  his  duties,  and  to 
account  for  all  moneys  and  effects  that  may  come  into  his  hands  be- 
longing to  the  Grand  Lodge. 

To  Transmit   Documents,  &c,  to    Committee  on    Foreign    Correspon 
dence — Grand  Lodge  Library. 

Sec.  17.  The  Grand  Secretary  shall  transmit  to  the  Committee  on 
Foreign  Corr'spondence,  immediately  upon  their  reception,  all  papers 
and  documcuts  for  said  committee.  The  committee  shall  return  all 
such  papers  and  documents  to  the  Grand  Secretary,  after  the  repoit 
is  completed,  for  the  purpose  of  binding. 

The  Grand  Secretary,  shall  have  bound,  in  good  library  binding, 
such  documents  as  may  be  returned  to  him  by  the  committee,  to  form 
a  library  for  the  Grand  Lodge. 


16  Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina. 

To  Secure  Transportation  for  Representatives  to  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Sec.  18.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Grand  Secretary,  before  the 
regular  Annual  Communication  of  this  Grand  Body,  to  make  applica- 
tion to  the  Presidents  of  the  different  Railroad  and  Navigation  Com- 
panies in  this  State,  to  allow  the  officers  and  representatives  to  pass 
to  and  from  this  Grand  Lodge  for  one  fare. 

To  Employ  Assistant. 

Sec.  19. — The  Grand  Secretary  is  authorized  to  employ  the  services 
of  some  suitable  brother  as  his  assistant  during  the  Annual  Communi- 
cations, and  the  Grand  Treasurer  is  directed,  upon  a  proper  warrant, 
to  pay  a  sum  not  exceeding  twenty-five  dollars  for  such  services. 

Grand  Tiler  —  Compensation  of. 

Sec.  20.  The  salary  of  the  Grand  Tiler  shall  be  five  dollars  for 
each  day  and  night  inclusive,  of  every  Communication  of  the  Grand 
Lodge. 

Grand  Lecturers. 

To  Exemplify  Work. 

Sec.  21.  The  Grand  Lecturers  shall  exemplify  the  work  when 
required  by  the  Grand  Master,  at  any  Annual  Communication  of  the 
Grand  Lodge.     (See  Article  vii  of  the  Constitution.) 

To  Examine  Records  of  Lodges,  &c. 

Sec.  22.  The  Grand  Lecturers  shall  examine  the  records  and  pro- 
ceedings of  the  Lodges  they  may  visit,  and  report  in  what  manner 
they  are  kept  and  conducted,  as  well  as  whether  due  obedience  is  paid 
to  the  Constitution,  laws  and  teachings,  of  Masonry. 


ARTICLE  II. 

REVENUES  OF  THE  GRAND  LODGE. 

Annual  Dues  of  Lodges 

Section  1.  The  dues  from  Subordinate  Lodges  to  this  Grand 
Lodge,  shall  be  fifty  cents  per  capita  annually,  for  each  member  re- 
ported on  the  annual  returns.  Each  Lodge  shall  transmit  with  its 
returns  such  annual  dues  or  fees  as  the  Grand  Lodge  may,  at  any 
time,  assess. 


Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina.  17 

Grand  Secretary  to  Receive  Moneys. 

Sec.  2.  The  Grand  Secretary  shall  receive  and  receipt  for  all  moneys 
due  the  Grand  Lodge,  handing  the  amount  promptly  to  the  Grand 
Treasurer,  taking  his  receipt  therefor.  Representatives  to  the  Grand 
Lodge  having  any  fees  or  dues  for  the  Grand  Lodge,  shall  hand 
them  to  the  Grand  Secretary. 

Moneys  How  Paid  from  Grand  Treasury. 

Sec.  3.  No  moneys  shall  be  paid  out  of  the  Grand  Treasury,  unless 
authorized  by  the  Grand  Lodge  and  approved  by  the  Grand  Master. 


ARTICLE  III. 

DIPLOMAS. 

Grand  Secretary  to  Provide. 

Section  1.  The  Grand  Secretary  shall  always  keep  on  hand  diplo- 
mas, printed  on  parchment  and  bound  in  pocket  form,  and  on  paper, 
with  Grand  Lodge  certificate  attached,  for  the  use  of  the  Subordinate 
Lodges,  for  which  they  shall  pay,  in  addition  to  the  cost  of  the 
blank  diploma,  fifty  cents  for  each  copy,  one-half  whereof  shall  be 
paid  into  the  Grand  Treasury,  the  other  the  Grand  Secretary  shall 
receive  for  affixing  seal,  &c. 

Diplomas  Furnished  by  Grand  Lodge. 

Sec  2  The  price  of  a  diploma  granted  by  this  Grand  Lodge,  or  by 
its  officers,  shall  be  five  dollars;  and  the  same  shall  accrue  to,  and  be 
a  part  of  the  perquisites  of,  the  Grand  Secretary. 


ARTICLE  IV. 

ANNUAL  COMMUNICATIONS  OF  GRAND  LODGE. 

When  and  Where  Held. 

Section  1.  The  Annual  Communications  of  the  Grand  Lodge  shall 
be  held  in  the  city  of  Raleigh,  on  the  first  Monday  of  December  in 
each  and  every  year. 


18  Masonic  Code  of  Nortli  Carolina. 

Quorum 

Sec.  2.  The  Representatives  of  three  Subordinate  Lodges,  with 
sucli  Grand  Officers  and  members  as  may  be  in  attendance,  shall  be 
necessary  to  constitute  a  quorum  for  the  transaction  of  business. 

Delegate  shall  Represent  only  Three  Lodges. 

Sec.  3.  A  delegate  shall  not  represent  more  than  three  Lodges  at 
the  same  time  in  this  Grand  Lodge. 

Proxy  Cannot  Appoint  Proxy. 

Sec.  4.  A  proxy  shad  not  transfer  his  authority  to  anothei  unless 
the  power  to  do  so  shall  be  expressly  given  by  his  principal. 

Manner  of  Voting  by  Representaiives —Number  of  Votes. 

Sec.  5.  Each  Lodge  represented  in  the  Grand  Lodge,  whether  by 
officers,  proxies,  or  special  representatives,  shad  be  entitled  to  three 
votes;  and  if  two  only  represent  a  Lodge,  and  they  shall  differ,  each 
shall  cast  one  and  a  half  vote. 

Creden'ials  of  Representatives. 

Sec.  G.  Every  representative  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  (whether  elected 
by  the  Lodge  or  appointed  the  prosy  of  any  officer)  must  be  furnished 
with  a  certificate  of  election  or  appointment,  under  the  seal  of  the 
Lodge,  attested  by  the  Secretary,  the  form  to  be  furnished  by  th" 
Grand  Secretary,  which  shall  state  that  he  is  a  Master  Mason;  and  all 
credentials  must  be  handed  to  the  Committee  on  Credentials.  No 
person  shall  represent  any  Subordinate  Lodge,  other  than  its  constitu- 
tional officers  either  as  a  delegate  or  proxy,  unless  he  produces  proper 
and  written  authority  therefor. 

Committee  on  Credentials — Appointment  and  Report  of. 

Sec.  7.  At  every  Annual  Communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge  the 
Grand  Master  shall  appoint  a  Committee  on  Credentials,  whose  duty 
it  shall  be  to  attend  at  the  Grand  Lodge  Hall  at  least  three  hours 
before  the  time  of  assembling  the  Grand  Lodge  at  the  succeeding 
Annual  Communication,  to  receive  credentials  of  representatives  and 
verify  proxies. 

Standing  Committees. 

Sec.  8.  The  Grand  Master  shall,  as  soon  as  he  may  deem  it  advisa- 
ble, after  the  acceptance  of  the  report  of  the  Committee  on  Creden- 
tials, appoint  the  following  Standing  Committees,  each  to  consist  of 
a  discretionary  number  of  members,  to  wit : 


Masonic  Code  of  JYoyth  Carolina.  10 

1st.  A  Committee  on  Charters  and  Dispensations;  to  wham  shall  be 
Teferred  all  matters  appertaining  to  the  constituting  or  chartering  of 
Lodges. 

2d.  A  Committee  on  Foreign  Correspondence  and  Miscellaneous  suo- 
jects ;  to  whom  shall  be  referred  immediately  after  their  receipt  by 
the  Grand  Secretary,  all  foreign  Communications,  and  such  miscella- 
neous matters,  as  may  not  otherwise  bo  specially  disposed  of,  and 
who  shall  be  required  to  submit  their  report  at  the  next  succeeding 
Annual  Communication;  and  the  expenses  of  the  chairman  in  attend- 
ing the  Grand  Lodge  to  submit  the  report,  shall  be  paid  by  the  Grand 
Lodge. 

3d.  A  Committee  on  Worl\  Proceedings  and  Returns  of  Subordinate 
Lodges;  to  whom  shall  be  referred  the  Returns  and  Proceeding?  of 
the  several  Lodges,  together  with  every  other  matter  relating  in  any 
way  to  said  Lodges,  and  which  may  not  meet  with  any  other  disposi- 
tion. 

4th.  A  Committee  on  Accounts  and  Claims;  whose  duty  it  shall  be 
to  examine  the  Grand  Treasurer's  accounts,  and  also  all  other  accounts 
and  claims  in  which  the  Grand  Lodge  may  be  interested,  and  report 
the  existing  condition  of  the  Grand  Treasury. 

5th.  A  Committee  on  Jurisprudence;  to  serve  until  the  succeeding 
Annual  Communication,  to  whom  shall  be  submitted  all  questions  of 
Masonic  Law,  not  requiring  the  decisions  of  the  Grand  Master.  All 
amended  By-Laws,  and  all  questions  of  Law  and  Usage  recommended 
by  the  Committee  on  Foreign  Correspondence  for  the  concurrence  of 
the  Grand  Lodge,  and  which,  if  recommended  by  said  committee, 
and  concurred  in  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  shall  be  recognized  as  the  law 
in  this  jurisdiction.  And  said  committee  shall  report  to  the  Grand 
Lodge  at  the  Annual  Communication  next  succeeding  their  appoint- 
ment, all  decisions  made  by  them  during  the  year,  and  all  necessary 
expenses  incurred  in  the  discharge  of  these  duties  shall  be  paid  by  the 
Grand  Lodge. 

6th. 'A  Committee  on  Schools  under  the  management  of  Subordinate 
Lodges. 

7th.  A  Committee  on  unfinished  business  of  previous  Commmdcation  ; 
whose  duty  it  shall  be  to  examine  the  records  of  the  Grand  Lodge, 
and  see  that  its  proceedings  have  been  faithfully  recorded. 

Grand  Master's  Address — Committee  on. 

Sec.  9.  After  the  Grand  Master  shall  have  presented  his  annual 
address,  (which  he  is  requested  to"  lay  before  the  Grand  Lodge  on 
Monday  evening  of  the' Annual  Communication,)  he  shall  appoint  a 
special  committee  of  reference,  who  shall  take  the  same  in   charge, 


20  Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina. 

and  make  a  report,  specifying  the  appropriate  committees  to  whom 
the  several  subjects  therein  noticed  shall  be  referred. 

Grand  Lodge- -When  and  How  Closed. 

Sec.  10.  The  Grand  Lodge  shall  continue  in  session  until  all  legiti- 
mate business  coming  before  it  shall  have  been  disposed  of,  or  until 
closed  by  the  Grand  Master. 

Leave  of  Absence  — How  Obtained. 

Sec.  11.  No  member  shall  leave  the  hall  or  absent  himself  from  the 
city,  during  the  session  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  without  the  permission 
of  the  Grand  Master. 

Visitors — How  Admitted. 

Sec.  12.  ISTo  visitors  shall  be  admitted  into  the  Grand  Lodge  ex- 
cept petitioners  and  witnesses:  Provided,  That  brethren  properly 
entitled  by  their  grade  in  Masonry,  may,  by  permission  from  the 
chair,  be  admitted;  in  neither  of  which  cases  shall  they  be  permitted 
to  vote. 

Refreshments  Forbidden. 

Sec  13.  This  Grand  Lodge  discountenances  refreshments  and 
forbids  their  use,  and  advibes  Subordinate  Lodges  to  do  the  same. 


ARTICLE  V. 

RULES  REGULATING  BUSINESS  OF  GRAND  LODGE. 

Order  of  Business. 

Section  1.  The  following  shall  be  the  order  of  business  for  the  reg- 
ulation of  the  Grand  Lodge : 

1.  Heading  the  Proceedings  of  the  previous  day. 

2.  Reports  of  Standing  Committees. 
S.  Reports  of  Special  Committees. 

4.  Communications  from  the  Grand  Master  or  other  Grand  Officers. 

5.  Motions  and  Resolutions. 

6.  Unfinished  Business. 

7.  Special  Orders. 

Communications,  &c,  How  Submitted. 
Sec  2.  All  communications  and  documents  must  first  be  submitted 


Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina.  21 

to  the  inspection  of  the  Grand  Master,  before  they  can  properly  come 
before  the  Grand  Lodge. 

To  be  Reduced  to  Writing. 

Sec.  3.  Every  resolution  or  motion  submitted  to  the  Grand  Lodge, 
shall,  if  required,  be  reduced  to  writing  and  referred  to  an  appropriate 
committee. 

Motions,  &c,  on  Jurisprudence  to  Lie  Over. 

Sec.  4.  All  motions  or  resolutions,  touching  Masonic  jurisprudence, 
shall  lie  over  one  day  before  the  same  is  acted  on,  unless  notice  thereof 
in  writing  be  given  one  day  before  its  introduction. 

Grand  Master — How  Addressed. 

Sec.  5.  Every  member  wishing  to  address  the  Grand  Lodge,  shall 
rise  and  respectfully  address  himsjlf  to  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand 
Master;  confining  his  remarks  to  the  subject  under  consideration,  and 
avoiding  personalities  and  all  gross  expressions. 

Restrictions  in   Debate  — Calls  to  Order. 

Sec.  6.  No  person  shall  speak  more  than  twice  on  the  same  subject 
without  permission,  nor  shall  he  interrupt  another  when  decorously 
addressing  the  Grand  Lodge.  All  calls  to  order  shall  be  addressed 
to  the  chair. 

Motion,  When  Debatable. 

Sec.  7.  No  motion  shall  be  debatable  until  seconded,  and  stated 
from  the  chair,  when  it  shall  be  considered  in  possession  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  and  cannot  be  withdrawn,  except  by  the  mover,  previous  to 
decision  or  amendment.  A  question,  after  being  put  by  the  Grand 
Master,  cannot  be  debated. 

Motion  to  Close,  &c,  Inadmissible. 

Sec.  8.  No  motion  to  close  or  call  off  is  admissible,  that  responsi- 
bility resting  alone  with  the  Grand  Master,  who  is  obligated  to  allow 
the  occurrence  of  nothing  tending  to  interrupt  or  defeat  the  regular 
course  of  any  business  legitimately  coming  before  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Parliamentary  Rules — Previous  Question. 

Sec.  9.  On  all  other  matters,  the  rules  which  generally  govern 
deliberative  assemblies  shall  be  observed,  except  as  to  the  previous 
question. 


22  Masonic  Code  of  Xortli  Carolina. 

Reconsideration  of  Votes. 

Sec.  10.  No  vote  of  the  Grand  Lodge  shall  lie  rec  nsidered  by  a 
less  number  of  members  than  were  present  at  the  passing  of  the 
same. 

Reports  of  Committees— How  Made. 

Sec.  11.  All  Committees  shad  report  their  procee  lings  in  writing — 
the  first  named  brother  on  each  to  be  Chairman;  unless  he  waive  his 
right  to  another. 


ARTICLE  VI. 

ESTABLISHMENT  OF  LODGES. 

Dispensations  —  Price  of. 

Section  1.  Dispensations  for  New  Lodges  may  be  granted  upon 
petition  to  the  Grand  Master,  or  the  Deputy  Grand  Mater,  of  not 
less  than  seven  worthy  Master  Masons,  said  petitioners  to  be  known 
and  recommended  by  a  Lodge  nearest  their  residence,  accompanied 
by  a  fee  of  ten  dollars  ($10),  one  dollar  of  wlrch  the  Grand  Secretary 
shall  retain  for  his  services. 

Petitions  for  Dispensations  to  Obtain  Dimits  or  Certificates. 

Sec.  2.  The  Dimits  of  petitioners  for  a  Dispensation  for  a  new 
L)dge  must  accompany  the  petition.  When  a  Lodge  has  forfeited  its 
charter  and  sent  its  records  to  the  Grand  Secretary,  the  former  mem- 
bers of  such  Lodge,  before  uniting  with  another  Lodge,  or  petitioning 
for  a  Dispensation  for  a  new  Lodge,  shall  be  provided  by  the  Grand 
Secretary  with  a  certificate  of  their  having  formerly  belonged  to  such 
Lo  Ige,  on  receipt  by  him,  of  all  dues  shown  by  such  records  to  be 
owing  by  them  to  their  former  Lodge. 

Skill  and  Proficiency  of  Officers  Certified, 

Sec  3.  All  Subordinate  Lodges,  recommending  petitions  for  dis- 
pensations for  opening  and  holding  new  Lodges,  shall,  in  addition  to 
the  recommendation  required  in  Section  1  of  this  Article,  plainly  and 
explicitly  certify  that  they  have  carefully  examined  the  Master  and 
Wardens,  or  at  least  the  Master,  of  the  proposed  Lodge,  and  that 
they  find  them  or  him  to  be  well  skilled  in  the  ritual  and  laws  of 
Masonry.     A    Subordinate  Lodge  shall  not  recommend   any  petition 


Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina.  23 

for  a  new  Lodge,  unless   it    can    unqualifiedly  certify  to  the  skill  and 
legal  knowledge  as  herein  required. 

Naming  Lodges. 

Sec.  4.  Masons  who  apply  for  a  dispensation  to  form  a  Lodge,  or 
for  a  Charter  after  having  worked  under  dispensation,  shall  not  name 
their  Lodge  after  any  living  man,  profane  or  Mason,  to  the  end  that 
masonry  may  not  be  brought  into  reproach  by  perpetuating  the  name 
of  an  unworthy  man. 

Powers  not  Possessed  by  Lodges  U.  D.—  Affiliate  Members— Exercise 

Jurisdiction. 

Sec.  5.  A  Lodge  working  under  Dispensation  has  not  the  power  to 
affi'iafe  members.  It  has  not  territorial  or  penal  jurisdiction.  It 
c  innot  try  or  discipline  the  Masons  composing  it,  or  those  living  nearer 
to  it  than  to  another  Lodge.  It  cannot  enact  By  Laws.  It  has  no 
powers  except  those  specially  delegated  by  the  Grand  Master's  Dis- 
pensation, under  which  it  is  established. 

Dispensation  to  be  Returned  -Charter  and  Seal  to  be  Issued. 

Sec.  6.  Every  Lodge  working  under  a  Dispensation,  shall  return 
the  same  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  at  the  first  Annual  Communication  after 
its  date,  together  with  a  copy  of  its  By-Laws,  a  transcript  of  its  pro- 
ceedings, a  list  of  officers  and  member-,  and  a  fee  of  twenty  dollars, 
also,  a  sufficient  sum  to  pay  for  a  suitable  seal,  for  which  a  charter 
and  seal  shall  lie  issued,  if  so  ordered  by  the  Grand  Lodge  The 
Secretary  of  every  chartered  Lodge  shall  attach  the  seal  thereof  to 
all  communications  issued   by  order  of  the  Lodge. 

/ 

Chartered  Lodges  — How  Numbered. 

Sec.  7.  When  Lodges  are  chartered,  they  shall  be  numbered  accord- 
ing to  the  dates  of  their  Charters,  and  numbers  rendered  blank  by  the 
demise  of  Lodges  shall  not  be  filled. 

Chartered  Lodges  —How  Constituted. 

Sec.  8.  No  chartered  Lodge  can  proceed  to  work,  until  tha  same 
shall  have  been  constituted  and  the  Master  regularly  installed,  either 
by  the  Grand  Master  in  person,  or  by  a  Past  Master  duly  author- 
ized. 

Duplicate  Charter  Retains  Membership. 

Sec.  9.  A  Lodge  receiving  a  duplicate  charter  to  supply  the  loss  of 
the  original,  retains  its  membership  entire. 


2Jf  Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina. 

ARTICLE  VII. 

ANNUAL  RETURNS  OF  LODGES  TO  GRAND  LODGE. 

What  the  Returns  Shall  Contain. 

Every  constituted  Lodge  unrlbr  this  jurisdiction  shall  milss 
annual  returns  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  on  a  form  to  he  furnished  by  the 
Grand  Secretary,  containing  the  following  items:  Officers;  Members; 
Resident  Masons  not  Members;  Entered  Apprentices;  Fellow  Crafts; 
those  initiated,  passed,  raised,  or  admitted  to  membership;  members 
who  have  died,  withdrawn,  or  been  excluded  for  nonpayment  of 
dues,  and  those  who  have  been  rejected,  suspended,  or  reinstated. 
The  location,  (county  and  town  or  place)  date  of  charter  of  the  Lodge, 
and  the  time  of  holding  its  Regular  Communications,  shall  be  stated. 
The  returns  shall  give  names  and  dates  in  all  cases  except  as  to  those 
rejected,  (which  are  not  to  be  published)  with  a  summary  in  figures, 
and  shall  be  certified  by  the  Secretary,  attested  by  the  seal  of  the 
Lodge.  They  shall  embrace  the  workings  and  statistics  of  the  Lodge 
for  the  year  ending  on  the  31st  day  of  October,  corresponding  with 
the  fiscal  year  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  A  Lodge  shall  not  be  entitled 
to  representation  in  the  Grand  Lodge,  except  by  special  permission, 
until  the  returns  are  filed  with,  and  all  dues  owing  by  the  Lodge  .are 
fully  paid  to,  the  Grand  Secretary. 


ARTICLE  VIII. 

REMOVAL  OF  LODGES. 

Proceedings  in. 

No  lodge  shall  be  removed  without  the  Master's  knowledge.  No 
motion  shall  be  made  for  removal  in  the  Master's  absence;  and,  if  the 
motion  be  seconded,  the  Master  shall  order  summons  to  every  indi- 
viduab member,  specifying  the  business,  and  appoint  a  day  for  hear- 
ing and  determining  the  matter,  at  least  ten  days  before  it  is  to  take 
place;  and  the  determination  shall  be  made  by  the  majority,  provided 
the  Master  be  one  of  that  majority,  But  if  he  be  of  the  minority 
against  removing,  the  Lodge  shall  not  be  removed,  unless  the  majority 
consists  of  full  two  thirds  of  the  members  present.  But,  if  the  Master 
refuse  to  direct  such  summons,  either  of  the  Wardens  may  do  it; 
and  if  the  Master  neglect  to   attend   on  the  day  fixed,  the  Wardens 


Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina.  25 

may  preside,  in  determining  the  matter,  in  the  manner  prescribed: 
Itut  they  shall  not  enter  upon  any  other  cause  than  that  particularly 
mentioned  in  the  summons.  If  the  Lodge  he  thus  regularly  ordered 
to  be  removed,  the  Master  or  Warden  shall  send  notice  thereof  to  the 
Grand  Secretary  for  publishing  the  same  at  the  next  Annual 
Communication.  No  Lodge  shall  be  deemed  regularly  removed, 
until  the  removal  thereof  be  approved  by  the  Grand  Master,  or  his 
Deputy  for  the  time  being;  nor  unless  the  laws  relating  to  removals 
be  strictly  complied  with;  and,  that  the  same  maybe  duly  ascer- 
tained, the  books  of  every  Lodge,  intended  to  be  removed,  shall  be  in- 
spected by  the  Grand  Secretary,  before  any  removal  takes  place. 


ARTICLE  IX, 

EXTINCT  LODGES. 

Forfeiture  and  Restoration  of  Charters. 

Section  1.  Every  Lodge,  which  shall  cease  to  meet  for  twelve 
months,  or  ueglect  to  make  returns  and  forward  dues  to  the  Grand 
Lodge  for  two  successive  terms,  shall  forfeit  its  Charter;  which 
shall  not  be  restored  except  on  application  by  the  Master,  War- 
dens, or  seven  members,  accompanied  by  satisfactory  explanations, 
to  be  approved  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  or  by  the  Grand  Master  during 
recess. 

Forfeited  Property — How  Secured  and  Disposed  of. 

Sec.  2.  In  case  of  the  suspension  or  demise  of  any  Lodge,  its  prop- 
erty and  furniture  of  whatever  kind,  charter,  jewels,  and  funds,  shall 
become  forfeited  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  the  Grand  Master  shall 
have  power,  either  personally  or  through  an  agent,  to  collect  and 
take  the  same  into  possession,  together  with  accounts  due,  and  he 
shall  be  authorized,  at  his  discretion,  to  sell,  lease  or  rent  real  estate 
or  other  such  property,  or  lend  to  a  Lodge  any  part  thereof  until  the 
ensuing  Annual  Communication  ;  or  he  may  restore  such  property  on 
the  revival  of  the  Lodge.  The  withholding  or  other  disposal  of  such 
effects  will  subject  the  parties  concerned  to  the  severest  penalties. 

The  Grand  Master  is  further  authorized  to  institute  legal  proceed- 
ings to  recover  such  property  and  funds,  and  to  employ  counsel  to 
conduct  the  same. 


%6  Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina, 

CHAPTER  X. 
PETITIONS  FOR  DEGREES  OR  MEMBERSHIP. 

Qualifications  of  Candidates. 

Section!.  Every  applicant  for  initiation  mast  be  free  born;  and 
no  individual,  physically  so  deformed  as  to  be  disabled  from 
honestly  acquiring  the  means  of  subsistence,  or  who  may  be  incapaci- 
tated for  becoming  a  useful  member,  shall  be  initiated  in  any  Lodge. 

Qualifications  for  Degrees. 

Sec.  2.  A  candidate  who  has  received  the  Entered  Apprentice 
Degree  and  afterwards  loses  an  arm  cannot  be  advanced. 

Either  drunkenness  or  profanity  is  a  sufficient  cause  for  the  rejec- 
tion of  a  petition. 

Petitions — How  Disposed  of— Election  of  Candidates  Restricted. 

Sec.  3.  Every  petition  for  initiation  or  membership  shall  be  sub- 
mitted at  a  regular  meeting  and  referred  to  a  committee  of  inquiry 
and  lie  over  at  least  one  month,  unless  in  cases  of  pressing  emergency, 
which  shall  not  be  considered  to  exist  unless  the  candidate  is  about 
to  journey  abroad;  neither  shall  more  than  one  degree  be  conferred 
on  the  same  day,  except  as  above  provided,  unless  due  profjeienev  be 
attained  in  each  advancing  step,  to  be  manifested  in  open  Lodge. 
An  excess  of  five  candidates  shall  not  be  received  at  the  same  Com- 
munication. Every  petition  for  the  degrees  or  membership  shall  be 
submitted  to  the  ballot  whether  the  report  of  the  committee  on  the 
same  is  favorable  or  unfavorable. 

What  Constitutes  Membership  in  a  Lodge. 

Sec.  4.  If  a  candidate  is  raised  by  the  Lodge  in  which  his  petiticn 
is  acted  on,  his  signing  the  By-Laws  constitutes  him  a  member.  If 
the  degrees  arc  conferred  by  the  request  of  another  Lodge  he  must 
sign  the  By-Laws  of  the  Lodge  making  the  request.  By-Laws  shall 
be  signed  by  the  hand  of  the  brother  receiving  the  degrees  or  elected, 
to  membership. 

Sojourners  and  Non-Residents  Excluded  —Twelve  Months  Residence. 

Sec.  5.  A  Lodge  shall  not  entertain  the  petition  for  degrees  of  a 
stranger,  sojourner  or  person  having  no  fixed  or  permanent  place  of 
abode  or  residence,  nor  of  one  whose  residence  is  nearer  to  some  other 
Lodge,  unless  by  written  sanction  of  such  Lodge,  or  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  State  from  which  he  hails.     Nor  shall  any  Lodge  enter- 


J\Iaso:tir  Code  of  North  Carolina.  27 

fcain  such  petition  from  an  applicant  who  has  not  resided  within  its 
jurisdiction  twelve  months  immediately  preceding  the  date  of  his 
petition. 

Material  Jurisdiction  of  a  Lodge. 

Sec.  6.  A  Subordinate  Lodge  has  exclusive  jurisdiction  over  all 
persons  or  candidates  residing  nearer  its  place  of  meeting  than  any 
other;  and  should  any  Lodge  receive  a  candidate,  residing  nearer 
some  other  Lodge  in  this  Grand  Jurisdiction,  and  confer  the  degrees 
upon  him,  the  fees  therefor  are  forfeited  to  the  Lodge  nearest  to 
which  the  candidate  resides.  Two  or  more  Lodges  in  a  town  or  city 
have  concurrent  jurisdiction  over  material. 

How  By-Laws  may  be  Suspended  or  Petition  Withdrawn. 

Sec,  7.  A  Lodge  cannot  suspend  its  Ey  Laws,  or  allow  a  petition 
to  be  withdrawn  after  its  presentation  and  reference,  without  first 
obtaining  a  dispensation  from  the  Grand  Master,  unless  it  should 
.appear  that  the  petitioner  resided  beyond  the  jurisdiction  of  the 
Lodge,  or  that  he  was  physically  disqualified. 

Qualifications  for   Membership. 

Sec.  8.  None  but  Master  Masons  of  good  standing,  against  whom 
no  other  Lodge  has  claims,  shall  be  admitted  to  membership  in  any 
Lodge. 

Dimits  to  Accompany  Petition— Exceptional  Cases. 

Sec.  9.  A  Lodge  sljall  not  receive  any  Mason  as  a  member,  who 
does  not  produce  a  certificate  of  withdral  from  the  Lodge  to  which 
he  last  belonged :  Provided,  That  any  Mason  of  good  standing  as 
a  citizen,  whose  Lodge  has  become  dormant,  upon  satisfying  any 
Lodge,  is  eutitled  to  become  a  member  of  such  Lodge,  by  and  with 
its  consent,  upon  such  terms  as  other  Masons  are  admitted. 

Dual  Membership  Forbidden. 

Sec  10.  A  Mason  shall  not  be  a  member  of  more  than  one  Lodge 
at  the  same  time.  A  Lodge  under  dispensation  shall  be  considered  a 
Lodge  within  the  meaning  of  this  section. 

Balloting* 

One  Black  Ball  Rejects. 

Sec.  11.  On  balloting  for  a  candidate,  or  for  membership,  one  black 
ball  shall  reject  without  a  question — except,  that  a  second  ballot  may 


£8  Masonic  Code  of 'North  Carolina. 

be  demanded  to  be  satisfied   of  no   mistake,  which   ballot    cannot  be 
reconsidered.     A  ballot  on  a  petition  shall  not  be  disclosed. 

Rejected  Petition  Excluded  for  One  Year 

Sec.  12.  A  petition  once  rejected  shall  not  again  be  acted  upon. 
within  one  year. 

Ballot  may  be  Taken  on  Passing-  or  Raising, 

Sec  13.  When  a  ballot  is  taken  on  a  petition  for  the  degrees  it  is 
for  the  applicant  to  become  a  Master  Mason.  It  is  proper,  however, 
if  a  member  shall  request  it,  to  take  a  ballot  on  his  application  for 
passing  or  raising.     (See  last  paragraph  Sec,  3.) 


CHAPTER  XL 

FEES  FOR  DEGREES, 

Amount  and  Ratio  of  Fees, 

Section  1.  The  amount  chargeable  by  Subordinate  Lodges  for  the* 
degrees  of  Entered  Apprentice,  Fellow  Craft,  and  Master  Mason,  shall 
not  be  less  than  twenty  dollars,  and  in  no  case  shall  the  fees-  be  re- 
mitted. It  shall  be  discretionary  with  the  Lodges  in  this  jurisdiction 
to  establish  any  ratio  of  fees  for  these  several  degrees  and  to  appor- 
tion a  sum  to  each  (exclusive  of  Tiler's  fees  that  may  be  allowed) 
provided  the  amounts  so  apportioned  shall  not  be  less  than  that  pre- 
scribed in  this  section. 

Fees  Required  in  Advance. 

Sec.  2.  All  the  Subordinate  Lodges  under  the  jurisdiction  of  this 
Grand  Lodge,  are  required  to  receive  all  fees  for  conferring  degrees 
invariably  in  advance,  and  shall,  in  no  case,  confer  a  degree  unless 
the  regular  fee  be  so  paid. 

Application  of  Fees  by  Lodges. 

Sec  3.  Every  Lodge  shall  hold  sacred  all  initiation  fees  for  chari- 
table or  educational  purposes,  unless  the  necessity  should  exist,  re- 
quiring their  use  in  providing  suitable  accommodations,  or  essential 
fixtures. 


Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina.  29 

No  Charge  for  Degrees  Conferred  by  Request. 

Sec.  4  No  charge  shall  be  made  for  degrees  by  a  Lodge  conferring 
the  same  at  the  request  of  another  Lodge,  the  net  being  an  extension 
of  Masonic  courtesy. 


ARTICLE  XII. 

CONFERRING  DEGREES,  WORK,  &c. 

Lectures  Appertaining  to  Degrees,  &c. 

Section  1.  In  conferring  the  several  degrees,  the  lectures  apper- 
taining thereto  shall  indispensably  be  delivered;  and  it  shall  be  con- 
sidered irregular,  in  the  opening  or  closing  of  a  Lodge,  to  waive  any 
portion  of  the  ceremonies. 

Uniformity  of  Work  —Employment  of  Lecturer. 

Sec.  2.  In  order  to  insure  a  uniformity  of  work  and  lectures  in  all 
the  Lodges,  they  shall  suffer  no  other  system  to  lie  introduced,  but 
such  as  may  be  authorized  by  the  Grand  Lodge.  And  they  shall 
pay  to  the  Grand  Lecturer,  for  his  services,  such  sum  as  may  be 
agreed  upon  between  themselves. 

Title  of  Work. 

Sec.  3.  The  "Ancient  Work  of  Masonry"  (known  as  the  Steven- 
son system)  shall  be  taught  and  practiced  as  the  work  of  this  Juris- 
diction, and  the  Subordinate  Lodges  shall  conform  thereto:  Provided, 
That  a  failure  by  a  Subordinate  Lodge  to  conform,  in  giving  the 
work,  in  matters  not  essential,  shall  not  be  deemed  a  cause  for  the 
arrest  or  forfeiture  of  its  charter. 

Solemnity  in  Conferring  Degrees. 

Sec.  4.  A  becoming  solemnity  shall  be  observed  during  the  intro- 
duction or  advancement  of  a  candidate,  and  no  unsanctioned  cere- 
mony shall,  under  any  consideration,  be  permitted. 

Ceremonies  may  be  Arrested. 

Sec.  5.  The  ceremonies  may  be  arrested  at  any  time  previous  to  the 
conferring  of  either  degree,  should  a  member  of  the  Lodge  object  to 
initiation  or  advancement,  and  the  member  objecting  shall  not  be 
required  to  assign  his  reasons  therefor,  or  to  prefer  charges  against 
the  candidate. 


30  Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina. 

Uie  of  Cypher  Forbidden. 

Sec.  6.  The  making  or  using  of  any  latter  or  cypher  to  the  true  Ma- 
sonic Work  and  mysteries,  is  not  authorized  by  the  ancient  customs 
of  the  Order,  is  contrary  to  its  principles  and  teachings,  and  cannot, 
therefore,  be  sanctioned  by  this  Grand  Lodge.  The  true  Masonic 
mysteries  should  be  taught  and  handed  down  by  oral  teaching  alone, 
as  has  been  done  from  remote  ages,  and  any  departure  from  this  prin- 
ciple is  fraught  with  danger  to   the  Institution. 

Making  Masons  at  Sight, 

Sec.  7.  (1.)  This  Grand  Lodge  does  not  recognize  any  other  mode 
of  making  Masons,  than  the  one  sanctioned  by  the  immemorial  usage 
of  the  Craft,  namely:  "In  a  regular  Lodge,"  after  "  previous  notice 
and  due  enquiry  into  character." 

(2.)  This  Grand  Lodge  does  not  recognize  any  inherent  right  or 
power,  or  prerogative  in  Grand  Masters,  to  make  Masons  at  sight  or 
will,  out  of  a  regular  Lodge  ;^and  regards  the  exercise  of  such  power 
not  only  as  arbitrary,  but  in  violation  of  the  plain  and  unmistakable 
provisions  of  the  ancient  charges  and  Constitutions  of  Masonry. 

Past  Master's  Degree. 

Sec.  8.  (1.)  The  Degree  of  Past  Master  is  not  deemed  as  an  essential 
to  the  Master  in  presiding  over  a  Lodge. 

(2.)  A  Mason  who  has  taken  this  Degree  in  a  Royal  Arch  Chapter  is 
not  entitled  to  recognition  in  a  Blue  Lodge  as  a  Past  Master  by  virtue 
of  said  Degree. 


ARTICLE  XIII. 

TRIALS  AND  PUNISHMENTS. 

Masons  may  be  Arraigned  on  Charge0. 

Section  1.  Every  Lodge  has  the  power  to  arraign  its  members,  or 
any  Mason  within  its  jurisdiction,  on  a  charge  of  immoral  or  un-Ma- 
sonic  conduct,  and,  after  due  investigation,  may  proceed  to  pass  such 
lawful  sentence  as  the  aggravation  of  the  case  shall  warrant.  The 
grades  of  punishment  are  expulsion,  indefinite  suspension,  definite 
suspension,  and  reprimand. 


Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina.  31 

Offences  Punishable. — Sees.  2  and  3. 

Improper  Influences  to  Secure  acquisitions  to  the  Fraternity. 

Sec.  2.  Any  Mason  so  reckless  of  his  duty  as  to  lend  his  influence, 
or  give  a  certificate  or  recommendation  to  enable  an  individual,  in 
defiance  of  expressed  disapprobation  or  known  regulation  of  a  Lodge, 
to  thrust  himself  into  their  society  may  be  suspended  or  expelled  by 
the  injured  Lodge  or  other  competent  tribunal,  the  proper  usages  in 
such  cases  to  be  observed. 

Profanity  and  Drunkenness. 

Sec.  8.  Profanity  and  drunkenness  are  high  Masonic  crimes.  Sub- 
ordinate Lodges  in  this  jurisdiction  are  directed  to  vindicate  the  law 
in  relation  thereto,  by  dealing  with  the  perpetrators  of  these  viola- 
tions of  the  moral  law,  and  inflicting  such  punishment  as  the  magni- 
tude of  the  offence  demands,  if  the  offenders  persist  in  these  practices 
after  due  admonition  and  warning. 

Accused  to  be  Notified — Trial  ex  parte— Vote  to  Expel  or  Suspend. 

Sec.  4.  Whenever  charges  are  preferred  against  a  brother,  he  shall 
l>e  notified  or  cited  through  his  nearest  Post  Office  or  otherwise,  at 
least  ten  days  before  the  day  of  trial  and  furnished  with  a  copy,  under 
the  SecretaT's  hand  and  seal,  of  the  charges  and  specifications. 
Should  he  fail  to  attend,  or  if  his  address  is  unknown  and  notice 
cannot  be  served,  the  trial  may  proceed  ex  parte.  Any  evidence,  al- 
lowable in  a  court,  may  be  taken  on  honor,  and  every  facility  shall 
be  allowed  the  accused  for  his  defence.  When  the  case  is  closed,  the 
sense  of  the  Lodge  shall  be  taken  through  the  ballot  box.  If  guilty, 
the  penalty  shall  be  determined  in  like  manner,  requiring  a  vote  of 
two-thirds  present  to  expel,  and  a  majority  to  suspend. 

Transcript  of  Trial  to  be  Sent  to  Grand  Lodge. 

Sec.  5.  In  every  case  of  suspension  or  expulsion  a  transcript  of  all 
the  proceedings  of  the  Lodge,  embracing  the  charges,  specifications, 
evidence  on  both  sides,  verdict  upon  each  charge  or  specification,  and 
the  sentence,  shall  be  sent  up,  under  the  seal  of  the  Lodge,  at- 
tested by  the  Secretary,  to  the  ensuing  Annual  Communication  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  for  examination,  and  to  be  confirmed  or  reversed.  (See 
form  of  Transcript.) 

New  Trials. 

Sec.  6.  A  new  trial  shall  not  be  granted,  neither  shall  a  Lodge 
reconsider  its   proceedings  in   a  trial  for   the  purpose   of   curing  any 


32  Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina. 

irregularities.  When  the  Grand  Lodge  shall  refuse  to  confirm  the 
proceedings  in  a  case  of  suspension  or  expulsion  by  reason  of  any 
technical  informality  or  irregularity  (without  reference  to  the  merits 
of  the  case)  the  same  shall  be  certified  to  the  Lodge,  and  a  new  trial 
shall  be  granted. 

Notice  of   Suspension  or    Expulsion—  Fee    to   be   Paid  — Grand   Secre- 
tary to  Issue  Circular. 

Sec.  7.  (1.)  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Secretary  of  every  Subordinate 
Lodge,  upon  the  rendition  of  a  sentence  of  suspension  or  expulsion  by 
the  Lodge,  (except  in  case  of  appeal  in  one  month,)  to  transmit  to 
the  Grand  Secretary,  under  the  seal  of  the  Lodge,  a  notice  of  the 
same  on  a  form  to  be  provided  by  him.  In  such  notice  the  cause  of 
suspension  or  expulsion  shall  be  stated. 

('!.)  A  fee  of  one  dollar  shall  accompany  said  notice  to  defray  the 
expense  of  its  publication. 

(3.)  The  Grand  Secretary  shall  keep  an  accurate  list  of  all  suspended 
or  expelled  Masons,  in  a  book  to  be  kept  for  that  purpose. 

(4.)  The  Grand  Secretary  shall  issue  quarterly  a  circular  containing 
notices  of  suspensions  and  expulsions  and  such  other  matters  as  the 
Grand  Master  may  direct,  in  such  form  as  may  be  conveniently  bound 
or  filed — two  copies  of  which  shall  be  sent  to  the  Secretary  of  each 
Subordinate  Lodge,  which  that  officer  shall  carefully  preserve  for  the 
inspection  of  the  members. 

(5.)  The  Grand  Secretary  shall  report  to  each  Annual  Communica- 
tion of  the  Grand  Lodge,  a  list  of  the  members  suspended  or  expelled 
during  the  year,  which  shall  be  published  in  the  proceedings. 

Appeals  and  Grievances—  How  Made  and  Disposed  of. 

Sec.  8.  Zppealsto  the  Grand  Lodge  shall  not  be  considered,  un- 
less the  same  be  in  writing,  stating  the  grounds  thereof,  accompanied 
with  all  necessary  papers,  proceedings  and  evidence  to  enable  the 
formation  of  a  correct  decision.  When  the  matter  is  thus  presented, 
it  shall  be  referred  to  a  special  committee.  All  grievances  shall 
be  disposed  of  in  the  same  manner.  In  anyr  extreme  case,  however, 
it  will  be  competent  for  the  Grand  Lodge  to  deviate  from  the  above 
rule. 

Minor    Offences  — How  Punishable— Disobeying   Summons    and    Dis- 
closing Lodge  Transactions. 

Sec.  9.  No  Lodge  can,  rightfully,  suspend  or  expel  a  Mason  for  a 
disregard  of  any  special  regulations  conditioned  upon  membership — 


■Masonic  Code  of  J\'orlh  Carolina.  33 

:such  as  non-payment  of  dues,  failure  to  attend  its  Communications, 
or  transgressions  of  minor  consideration,  the  severest  penalty  for 
which  shall  be  dismembership.  Nor  can  a  Lodge  impose  a  fine  upon 
a  member  for  non-attendance  at  its  Communications:  Provided,^ 
That  nothing  herein  contained  shall  apply  to  a  willful  refusal  to  attend 
a  Communication  of  a  Lodge  when  lawfully  summoned.  Disclosures 
to  others  than  Masons,  af  important  transactions  within  a  Lodge, 
will  be  considered  as  exceptions,  and  may  be  dealt  with  according 
to  the  magnitude  of  the  offence. 

Legal  Summons. 

Sec.  10.  A  written  or  printed  notice,  by  order  of  the  Master,  signed 
by  the  Secretary,  and  attested  by  the  seal  of  the  Lodge,  shall  be  con- 
sidered a  legal  notice  or  summons. 

Members  Disobeying  Summons. 

Sec  11.  The  Master  and  Wardens  of  any  Subordinate  Lodge,  that 
shall  fail  to  take  action  against  a  member  for  disobedience  of  sum- 
mons, are  guilty  of  a  grave  masonic  offence,  and  failure  in  this 
matter  shall  be  considered  a  sufficient  cause  for  arrest  of  Charter, 

Exclusion  for  Non-Payment  of  Dues— Effect  of,  &c. 

Sec.  12.  (1  )  A  member  shall  not  be  excluded  from  his  Lodge  without 
notice  having  been  served  on  him  to  appear  and  show  cause  for  delin- 
quency. 

(2.)  Exclusion  from  a  Lodge  for  non-payment  of  dues  does  not  im- 
pair the  standing  of  a  member  with  the  fraternity  at  large,  other 
than  placing  him  in  a  non-affiliated  relation. 

(3.)  A  member  excluded  for  non-payment  of  dues  can  be  reinstated 
only  in  the  manner  prescribed  by  the  By-Laws  of  the  Lodge. 

Effect  of  Expulsion  by  Chapter,  Council,  &c. 

Sec.  13.  An  expulsion  from  a  Chapter,  Council,  Encampment  or 
Consistory,  does  not  affect  the  standing  of  the  member  in  any  Blue 
Lodge. 


3Jj>  Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina, 

ARTICLE  XIV. 

RULES  FOR  THE  GOVERNMENT  OF  LODGES  IN  TRIALS', 

Charges — How  Made — Accused  to  be  Served  with  Copy. 

Section  1.  The  accusation  must  be  made  in  wi  king  over  the  signa- 
ture of  a  Master  Mason,  and  handed  to  the  Secretary  to  be  read  in 
open  Lodge,  and  spread  upon  the  minutes,  after  which  the  accused 
shall  be  served  with  an  attested  copy  of  the  charges  and  specifications, 
together  with  a  notice  through  the  Post  Office  or  otherwise,  at  least 
ten  days  before  the  trial,  to  appear  and  answer;  and  should  his  place 
of  residence  be  at  a  distance,  or  he  require  more  time  for  defence,  a 
reasonable  time  must  be  allowed.  If  the  residence  of  the  accused  be 
unknown,  or  he  fail  to  appear,  or  to  show  satisfactory  cause  for  delay 
of  proceedings,-  then,  and  in  that  case,  the  Lodge  may  proceed  to  ex- 
amine the  charges  ex-parte. 

Special  Communications  for  Trial. 

Sec.  2.  The  Lodge  for  investigating  charges,  must  be  specially 
notified  and  convened  for  that  purpose,  at  which  no  visitors  shall  be 
admitted  except  as  counsel  or  witnesses,  and  if  any  of  these  be  not 
Master  Masons,  the  Lodge  must  be  called  off  during  their  presence. 
After  the  usual  preliminary  preparation  for  conducting  the  examina- 
tion, if  the  accused  be  not  a  Master  Mason,  the  Master's  Lodge  must 
be  dispensed  with,  and  a  Lodge  opened  on  the  highest  degree  to 
which  he  has  attained. 

Counsel  — Evidence  — How  Taken. 

Sec  3.  The  accused  may  have  the  benefit  of  counsel,  and  the  wit- 
nesses shall  testify  on  their  honor.  Hearsay  evideuce  must  be  ex- 
cluded. If  testimony  lie  taken  out  of  the  Lodge,  the  accused,  when 
practicable,  shall  be  duly  notified  of  the  time  and  place  where 
it  wdl  be  taken,  that  he  may  have  an  opportunity  of  being  present. 

Examination — How  Conducted. 

Sec.  4.  Ho  irrelevant  questions  or  testimony  shall  be  allowed  in  the 
examination  of  witnesses.  The  Master  may  conduct  the  examination 
on  behalf  of  the  Lodge,  or  it  may  appoint  a  committee  for  that  pur- 
pose, and  the  questions  to,  as  well  as  the  answers  by,  the  witnesses, 
must  be  carefully  noted  down,  read,  and  if  necessary,  amended  in 
their  presence,  and  then  spread  upon  the  minutes.  A  defendant 
may  be  allowed  to  make  a  statement  in  relation  to  his  case,  and  the 
Lodge  may  receive  it  as  it  thinks  proper. 


Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina.  So 

■Argument  of  Defence. 

Sec.  5.  When  the  examination  is  closed,  the  accused  shall  be  heard 
in  defence,  either  in  person  or  through  counsel,  after  which  all  who 
are  not  members  of  the  Lodge  shall  retire,  and,  if  during-  the  exam- 
ination it  shall  Inve  called  off,  the  Lodge  must  then  be  called  on. 

Conviction  and  Punishment  -How  Determined. 

Sec.  6.  The  question,  guilty  or  not  guilty,  shall  be  put  to  the 
Lodge,  upon  each  separate  charge  and  specification,  which  a  majority 
of  the  members  present  shall  determine  by  ballot,  and  if  the  accused 
be  found  guilty  of  any  one  or  more  of  the  charges  or  specifications, 
then  the  penalty  shall  be  determined  in  like  manner,  taking  the  ques- 
tion upon  the  highest  penalty,  /expulsion)  first,  a  vote  of  two  thirds 
•of  the  members  present  being  necessary  to  expel,  and  a  majority  to 
suspend.  The  charges  or  specifications  upon  which  the  accused  may 
be  found  guilty,  together  with  the  sentence,  must  be  spread  upon  the 
minutes. 

Proceedings  Regulating  Appeals. 

Sec.  7.  A  brother  feeling  himself  aggrieved  by  the  decision  of  a 
Subordinate  Lodge,  shall  have  the  right  of  appeal  to  the  Grand 
Lodge,  he  having  given  notice  within  one  month  after  the  trial,  to 
the  Subordinate  Lodge,  of  his  intention  to  so  appeal  from  its  decision, 
and  upon  stating  in  writing,  the  grounds  of  appeal,  the  Secretary  of 
said  Lodge,  if  required,  shall  furnish  him  with  a  copy  of  all  the  pro- 
ceedings touching  his  case. 


ARTICLE  XV, 

RESTORATION  OF  SUSPENDED  OR  EXPELLED  MASONS. 

How  Restorations  may  take  Place. 

Section  1,  A  Subordinate  Lodge  has  power  to  restore  by  a  nani- 
mous  ballot,  a  suspended  or  an  expelled  Mason,  upon  his  owu  peti- 
tion, and  such  evidences  of  penitence  and  reformation  as  to  it  may 
appear  satisfactory.  Restoration  by  the  Grand  Lodge  does  not  re- 
instate the  brother  to  membership  in  his  Lodge. 


36  Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina. 

Petitions  for  Restoration— How  Made  and  Acted  on. 

Sec.  2.  A  petition  for  restoration  shall  be  in  writing,  shall  be  pre- 
sented at  a  regular  Communication  of  the  Lodge  and  lie  over  one 
month,  when  the  members  shall  be  summoned  to  attend.. 

Restoration  in  Case  of  Definite  Suspension. 

Sec.  3.  A  Mason  who  has  been  suspended  for  a  definite  period  isr 
after  the  expiration  of  the  time  for  which  he  was  suspended,  entitled 
to  all  the  rights  and  privileges  that  he  enjoyed  before  his  suspension,, 
and  if  he  was  a  member  of  the  Lodge  by  which  he  was  suspended,  a 
ballot  is  not  necessary  to  restore  him. 

Notice  of  Restoration — Kow  Made. 

Sec.  4.  In  case  of  the  restoration  of  any  suspended  or  expelled 
Mason,  the  Secretary  of  the  Lodge  shall  immediately  certify  to  the 
Grand  Secretary,  under  the  seal  of  the  Lodge,  and  in  a  form  to  be 
prescribed  by  the  Grand  Secretary,  the  fact  and  date  of  such  restora- 
tion or  re-admissinn,  with  like  fee  as  in  case  of  suspension  or  expul- 
sion, and  the  same  shall  be  published  in  like  manner  by  the  Gaaud 
Secretary:  Provided,  That  in  such  case  the  publication  fee  shall  lie 
paid  by  the  member  restored,  as  a  condition  precedent  to  such  resto- 
ration or  re-admission.  If  restoration  takes  place  before  the  case  is 
reviewed  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  the  charges,  specifications  and  pro- 
ceedings in  the  same  shall  be  sent  up  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  at  itsensu- 
ino-  Annual  Communication,  for  final  action. 


ARTICLE   XVI. 

GOVERNMENT  OF  LODGES. 

Communications  —Powers  —Quorum,  &c. 

Section  1.  All  constituted  Lodges  under  this  jurisdiction,  have  the 
right  to  convene  as  free  and  accepted  Masons,  (not  less  than  seven 
members  being  present)  receive  petitions,  confer  the  degree  of  En- 
tered Apprentice,  Fellow  Craft,  and  Master  Mason,  admit  members, 
choose  officers  annually,  exact  dues,  establish  a  charity  fund,  and  act 
upon  all  other  matters  of  Masonic  concernment  not  inconsistent  with 
their  charters,  the  laws  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  or  the  Ancient  usages  of 
the  Craft, 


Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina.  37 

Regular  and  Special  Communications  Provided  for. 

Sec.  2.  Every  Lodge  shall  hold  at  least  oue  regular  Communication 
monthly,  which  can  only  be  dispensed  with,  and  then  temporarily,  on 
great  emergency.  A  regular  or  special  Communication  shall  not  be 
held  on  the  Holy  Sabbath,  for  any  business  except  to  perform  funeral 
or  burial  rites. 

Regular  Lodge-  How  Convened. 

Sec.  3.  The  Master  has  power  to  convene  his  Lodge;  or,  in  his  ab- 
sence, the  Wardens  by  seniority.  All  Communications  as  a  Lodge, 
otherwise  convened,  together  with  the  proceedings  therein,  unless 
sustained  by  dispensation,  shall  be  considered  clandestine,  and  sub- 
ject all,  so  improperly  concerned,  to  the  severest  penalties. 

Special  Communications  -Business  Restricted. 

Sec.  4.  No  business  can  be  transacted  at  a  special  Communication 
other  than  that  for  which  it  was  called,  nor  can  such  communication 
receive  petitions,  or  ballot,  except  upon  the  advancement  of  candi- 
dates, or  engage  in  any  other  business  affecting  the  general  interests 
of  the  Craft.  The  presence  of  the  Grand  Master  or  Deputy  Grand 
Master  warrants  exceptions. 

Business  of  Lodges  Transacted  in  Master's  Degree,  &c. 

Sec.  5.  No  business  shall  be  transacted  in  any  other  than  a  Master's 
Lodge  except  such  as  pertains  especially  to  the  work  and  lectures  of 
the  Entered  Apprentice  or  Fellow  Craft's  degree,  or  the  investigation 
of  charges  against  an  Entered  Apprentice  or  Fellow  Craft. 

Dispensation  or  Charter  to  be  Present. 

Sec.  6.  A  Lodge  cannot  be  opened  unless  the  dispensation  or 
charter  be  present,  which  is  considered  to  be  under  the  special  charge 
of  the  Master. 

Decorum  in  Lodges. 

Sec.  7.  The  utmost  decorum  should  be  observed  i.i  every  Lodge; 
and  no  infringement  of  the  established  usages  regarding  respect  and 
behaviour  should,  under  any  pretence,  be  countenanced  or  allowed. 

Intoxicating  Liquors  Forbidden  in  Lodges. 

Sec.  8.  The  intfoduction,  or  use  of  intoxicating  drink  is  prohibited 
to  every  Lodge,  regardless  of  the  occasion.     (Sec.  12  of  Art.  IV.) 

6 


38  Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina . 

By-Laws  of  Lodges. 

Sec.  9.  Subordinate  Lodges  in  this  Grand  Jurisdiction  shall  be 
allowed  the  privilege  of  enacting  such  additional  By-Laws  to  the 
Code  adopted  by  this  Grand  Lodge,  as  may  be  deemed  proper  by  such 
Lodges:  Provided,  That  such  additions  do  not  conflict  with  the  an- 
cient regulations,  charges  and  constitutions  of  Masonry.  All  such 
By-Laws  shall  be  submitted  to  the  Committee  on  Masonic  Jurispru- 
dence for  approval,  and  such  amendments  shall  be  inoperative  until 
so  approved. 

Clandestine  Lodges. 

Sec.  10.  This  Grand  Lodge  does,  and  the  Fraternity  in  North  Car- 
olina shall,  regard  all  Lodges  uot  constituted  under  the  authority  of 
this  Grand  Lodge,  or  of  the  Grand  Lodges  which  are  now,  or  may 
be,  recognized  by  it,  as  clandestine,  and  the  members  thereo^as 
spurious. 

Election  and  Installation  of  Officers  in  Lodges. 

Sec.  11.  Subordinate  Lodges  shall  hold  their  election  for  officers 
at  the  regular  Communication  immediately  preceding  the  24th  day  of 
June,  or  the  27th  day  of  December,  in  each  year,  and  the  officers  elect 
shall  lie  installed  on  the  St.  John's  day  succeeding  the  election,  or  as 
soon  thereafter  as  practicable. 

Master  Must  have  Been  a  Warden. 

Sec  12.  A  Lodge  shall  not  elect  to  the  office  of  Master  a  brother 
who  has  not  been  a  Warden. 

Installation  by  Proxy. 

Sec  13.  An  officer  elect  may  be  installed  by  proxy  if  absent. 

Installed  Officer  cannot  Resign. 

Sec  14.  An  installed  officer  cannot  relinquish  or  resign  his  office 
before  his  successor  is  installed. 

Dues  of  Members  of  Lodges— Remission  of. 

Sec  15.  A  Lodge  may  designate  in  its  By-Laws  the  amount  to  be 
paid  by  each  member  quarterly  or  annually,  as  clues,  and  it  has  the 
power  to  remit  the  same,  or  any  part  thereof,  on  account  of  poverty 
or  distress. 

Reading  and  Approving  the  Minutes. 

Sec  16.   The  Minutes   of  a  Lodge  should   be  read  and    approved 


Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina.  39 

(after  amendment  if  necessary)  before  the  Lodge  is  closed,  and  attested 
by  the  Secretary.  The  signature  of  the  Master  is  not  essential  to  the 
legality  of  the  Minutes. 

Legal  Communications  from  Lodges— Jurisprudence,  &c. 

Sec.  17.  A  communication  from  a  Lodge  should  bear  the  signature 
of  the  Secretary,  attested  by  the  seal.  No  other  is  legal.  All  com- 
munications to  the  Grand  Master  from  Subordinate  Lodges  or  mem- 
bers, concerning  Jurisprudence,  shall  be  transmitted  through  the 
Secretary,  under  the  seal  of  the  Lodge. 

Regalia  and  Dress  on  Public  Occasions. 

Sec.  18.  The  regalia  worn  in  Lodges  shall  be  such  only  as  may  be 
recognized  therein.  On  public  occasions  the  regalia  and  dress  shall 
consist  of  "white  aprons,  with  or  without  device,  white  gloves,  blue 
collars  or  ribbons  with  jewels  of  officers  appended,  and,  whenever 
practicable,  black  suits  and  hats.  Masons  may  appear  in  procession 
on  such  occasions  in  full  regalia  peculiar  to  their  Masonic  rank. 

Dress  at  Funerals. 

Sec.  19.  On  funeral  or  burial  occasions,  Masons  shall,  when  practi- 
cable, appear  clothed  in  black,  with  white  aprons  and  gloves,  officers 
with  their  jewels,  and  all  with  black  crape  upon  their  left  arm  above 
the  elbow.  In  addition  a  piece  of  blue  ribbon  overlaid  with  a  narrow 
black  ribbon,  may  be  worn  on  the  lappel  of  the  coat,  according  to 
individual  taste. 

Burials. 

Sec.  20.  It  is  the  duty  of  the  Master  of  every  Lodge,  on  the  decease 
of  a  member,  or  sojourning  brother,  (who  may  not  be  under  Masonic 
censure),  to  ascertain  if  Masonic  honors  would  be  agreeable,  and  take 
measures  accordingly. 

Committee  of  Arbitration  in  Controversies-Appeal  from. 

Sec.  21.  Every  Lodge  shall  appoint  a  committee  of  reference,  to 
consist  of  at  least  three  judicious  members,  who  shall  patiently  and 
impartially  consider  and  pass  upon  all  matters  of  controversy  or  dis- 
dispute,  arising  among  the  brethren,  as  may  be  submitted  for  their 
decision.  Should  either  party  be  dissatisfied  with  the  judgment,  an 
appeal  may  be  made  to  the  Lodge. 

Visitation. 

Sec.  22.  Any  Mason  in  good  standing  in  his  Lodge  may  visit  a 


40  Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina. 

Lodge  upon  application  to  the  same,   provided  no  member   objects, 
but  admission  shall  be  denied  him  if  objection  is  made. 

Lawful  Information 

Sec.  23.   Lawful  information  is  : 

1st.  A  personal  knowledge  obtained  from  strict  trial  and  due  ex- 
amination, or  from  sitting  in  a  regular  Lodge  with  a  brother. 

2d.  The  declaration  of  a  personally  known  Master  Mason  that  the 
brother  is  a  Master  Mason. 


ARTICLE  XVII. 

MASTER  OF  LODGE. 

Appeals  from,  and  Reversal  of,  Decisions. 

Section  1.  A  Lodge  cannot  reverse  the  decision  of  its  Master. 
Appeals  from  his  decisions  can  only  be  taken  by  a  majority  of  the 
Lodge  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  or  Grand  Master  during  recess. 

How  Dealt  With. 

Sic.  2.  A  Lodge  cannot  try  its  Master,  but  any  three  members, 
after  giving  due  notice,  may,  in  case  of  a  willful  neglect  of  duty  on 
his  part,  or  for  gross  unmasonic  conduct,  prefer  charges  against  him 
before  the  Grand  Lodge,  whose  action  shall  be  final;  or  to  the  Grand 
Master  during  recess,  who,  on  the  facts  being  represented  to  him  by 
a  majority  of  the  members  of  the  Lodge,  through  the  official  notice  of 
the  Secretary,  shall  have  power  to  suspend  the  said  Master  until  the 
next  ensuing  Annual  Communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  when  and 
where  the  case  may  be  examined  and  determined. 


ARTICLE  XVIII. 

NON  AFFILIATED  MASONS. 

Excluded  from  Rights  and  Privileges. 

Section  1.  Every  Mason  ought  to  belong  to  some  Lodge,  and  com- 
ply with  its  By-Laws  and  the  general   regulations  in  relation    to  the 


Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina.  Jfl 

payment  of  dues  and  contributions  to  the  charity  fund ;  and  any 
Mason  who  fails  to  do  so,  shall  not  be  entitled  to  visit  a  Lodge  while 
he  remains  non-affiliated,  or  to  join  in  processions,  or  to  relief,  or 
masonic  assistance  or  burial:  Provided,  That  nothing  in  the  forego- 
ing shall  be  so  construed  as  to  prohibit  any  Subordinate  Lodge  from 
permitting  a  non  affiliated  Mason  to  visit  the  Lodge  once. 

Names  not  to  be  Published. 

Sec.  2.  The  names  of  non-affiliated  Masons  shall  not  he  published 
in  the  Proceedings  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Dimits  to  be  Granted  on  Application — Release  from  Masonic  Rights. 
Sec.  3.  Any  member  of  a  Subordinate  Lodge  who  may  apply  for  a 
dimifc,  shall  be  granted  the  same  upon  his  producing  the  Secretary's 
receipt  that  he  has  paid  all  Lodge  dues,  if  there  be  no  charges  against 
him:  Provided,  That  any  Mason  who  thus  becomes  non-affiliated,  by 
his  action  distinctly  releases  all  members  of  Lodges  from  any  and  all 
Masonic  ties  between  himself  and  them,  retaining  no  Masonic  right 
except  that  of  petitioning  any  Lodge  for  membership. 


ARTICLE  XIX. 

WIDOWS  AND  ORPHANS  OF  MASTER  MASONS. 

Certificate  to  be  Furnished. 

Upon  the  death  of  any  Master  Mason,  a  member  in  good  standing 
of  a  Lodge  under  this  jurisdiction,  the  Secretary  of  such  Lodge  shall  fur- 
nish his  widow  or  orphans  a  certificate,  under  the  seal  of  the  Lodge, 
of  his  membership,  standing  and  death,  without  application  or  charge 
therefor. 


ARTICLE  XX. 

PROCEEDINGS  OF  GRAND  LODGE. 

When  Published  and  How  Distributed. 

Section  1.  The  Grand  Secretary  shall  have  the  proceedings   of  the 
Grand  Lodge  published  and  transmitted  to  the    Subordinate   Lodges 


4-2  Masonic  Code  of  J\orth  Carolina. 

within  two  months  after  the  close  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  The  pro- 
ceedings shall  contain  in  summary  form,  the  number  of  affiliating  and 
non-affiliating  Masons,  the  number  of  workiug  Lodges  in  the  State  7 
and  an  abstract  of  such  statistics  of  the  workings  of  the  Lodges  as 
the  returns  may  furnish.  Three  copies  of  the  same  shall  be  transmit- 
ted to  the  Lodges,  one  copy  to  each  of  the  Grand,  and  Past  Grand 
Masters,  Deputy  Grand  Masters,  Wardens,  Treasurers  and  Secretaries,, 
and  copies,  not  exceeding  three,  to  each  of  the  Grand  Lodges  with 
which  this  Grand  Lodge  is  in  correspondence.  The  Grand  Secretary 
shall  reserve  at  least  three  copies  for  the  library  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

To  be  Read  in  Lodges, 

Sec.  2.  The  Master  of  each  Subordinate  Lodge  shall  cause  to  be 
read  before  the  Lodge  the  proceedings  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  for  the 
information  of  the  brethren,  and  the  Lodge  shall  preserve  the  same 
and  have  them  bound. 

Extra  Copies — How  Obtained, 

Sec.  3.  Any  Subordinate  Lodge  that  shall  voluntarily  pay  into  the 
Treasury  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  an  amount  of  funds  in  addition  to  its 
annual  stipend,  shall  be  entitled  to  receive  from  the  Grand  Secretary, 
one  copy  of  the  proceedings  above  three,  for  every  fifty  cents  so  con- 
tributed, for  the  benefit  of  its  members. 


ARTICLE   XXL 

REPRESENTATION  IN  GRAND  BODIES. 

The  Grand  Master  is  authorized  to  appoint  a  representative  of  this 
Grand  Lodge  near  the  Grand  Lodge  of  any  other  Jurisdiction,  which 
may  indicate  a  willingness  to  reciprocate  the  courtesy,  such  an  inter- 
change of  fraternal  courtesies  being  considered  by  this  Grand  Lodge 
as  eminently  calculated  to  maintain  and  promote  reciprocal  regard 
and  harmonious  feeling,  prominent  characteristics  which  should  ever 
exist  between  sister  Grand  Bodies. 


Masonic  Code  of  Nortli  Carolina.  fy3 

ARTICLE  XXII. 

AMENDMENTS. 

How  Made. 

No  alteration  or  amendment  of  these  By-Laws  shall  be  made  unless 
by  a  vote  of  two-thirds  of  all  the  members  present  at  any  Annual  Com- 
munication, when  the  same  shall  be  proposed. 

ORPHAN  ASYLUM. 

The  following  is  the  legislation  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  in  a  condensed 
form,  concerning  the  Orphan  Asylum; 

Establishment  of. 

Section  1.  (1,)  St.  John's  College,  at  Oxford,  shall  be  made  an 
asylum  for  the  protection,  training  and  education  of  indigent  orphan 
children. 

^2.)  The  Grand    Lodge  will    appropriate   $ *  annually    for   the 

support  of  the  institution,  but  will  not  assume  any  additional  pecu- 
niary responsibility. 

(3.)  Tt  is  Grand  Lodge  will  annually  elect  a  Superintendent,  who 
shall  control  the  institution  and  solicit  contributions  for  its  support 
from  all  classes  of  our  people. 

(4.)  Orphan  children  in  the  said  Asylum  shall  be  fed  and  clothed, 
and  shall  receive  such  preparatory  training  and  education  as  will  pre- 
pare them  for  useful  occupations  and  for  the  usual  business  transac- 
tions of  life. 

Branch  Asylum. 

Sec.  2.  A  branch  of  the  Orphan  Asylum  shall  be  established  at 
Mars  Hill,  in  the  County  of  Malison,  North  Carolina,  on  the  plan  of 
the  Asylum  at  Oxford.  The  property  at  Mars  Hill,  tendered  by  the 
owners  thereof  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  to  be  used  as  an  Orphan  Asylum, 
is  accepted. 

Manner  of  Raising  Funds  for  Asylums. 

Sec.  3.  The  Master  of  every  Lodge  shall  annually  appoint  a  Stand- 
ing Committee  for  raising  funds  for  the  Orphan  Asylums,  and  require 


:  Amount  left  "blank,  as  it  is  subject  to  a  change  at  each  Annual  Communication. 


44  Masonic  Code  of  North  Carolina. 

said  committee  to  report  in  writing  at  every  monthly  Communication^ 
copies  of  which  reports,  with  the  funds  received,  shall  be  transmitted 
monthly  to  the  Superintendent  of  the  Asylums.  The  support  of  the 
Asylums  shall  be  a  regular  order  of  business  in  every  Lodge  at  each 
regular  Communication. 

Superintendent  shall  make  Annual  Reports. 

Sec.  4.  The  Superintendent  of  the  Orphan  Asylums  shall  report  to 
each  Annual  Communication  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  an  account  of  his 
official  acts,  receipts,  disbursements,  number  of  pupils,  &c,  together 
with  such  suggestions  as  he  may  see  proper  to  submit. 

Government  of  the  Asylums. 

Sec.  5.  The  Orphan  Asylum  at  Oxford  and  Branch  at  Mars  Hill 
shall  be  under  the  control  of  one  Superintendent.  (See  Proceedings 
of  Grand  Lodge,  1873,  pages  51  and  52,  and  Proceedings  of  1874, 
pages  35  and  56.) 


fv 


THE  CHARGES  OF  A  FREEMASON, 


1722. 


EXTRACTED    PROM 

THE  ANCIENT  RECORDS  OF  LODGES  BEYOND  SEA,  AND  OF  THOSE 

IN  ENGLAND,   SCOTLAND,   AND  IRELAND,   FOR  THE 

USE  OF  THE  LODGES  IN  LONDON. 


I  Concerning  God  and  TiEUiGioN. 

A  Mason  is  obliged,  by  his  tenure,  to  obey  the  moral  law;  and  if 
he  rightly  understands  the  art,  he  will  never  be  a  stupid  Atheist,  nor 
an  irreligious  libertine.  But  though  in  ancient  times  Masons  were 
charged  in  every  country  to  be  of  the  religion  of  that  country  or  na- 
tion, whatever  it  was,  yet  it  is  now  thought  more  expedient  only  to 
oblige  them  to  that  religion  in  which  all  men  agree,  leaving  their 
particular  opinions  to  themselves;  that  is,  to  be  good  men  and  true? 
or  men  of  honour  and  honesty,  by  whatever  denominations  or  persua- 
sions they  may  be  distinguished;  whereby  Masonry  becomes  the 
centre  of  union,  and  the  means  of  conciliating  true  friendship  among 
persons  that  must  have  remained  at  a  perpetual  distance. 

II.   Op  the  Civil  Magistrate,  supreme  and  subordinate. 

A  Mason  is  a  peaceable  subject  to  the  civil  powers,  wherever  he  re- 
sides or  works,  and  is  never  to  be  concerned  in  plots  and  conspiracies 
against  the  peace  and  welfare  of  the  nation,  nor  to  behave  himself 
undutifully  to  inferior  magistrates;  for  as  Masonry  hath  been  always 
injured  by  war,  bloodshed,  and  confusion,  so  ancient  kings  and 
princes  have  been  much  disposed  to  encourage  the  Craftsmen,  because 
of  their  peaceableness  and  loyalty,  whereby  they  practically  answered 
the  cavils  of  their  adversaries,  and  promoted  the  honour  of  the  Fra  - 

7 


y±G  Ancient  Constitutions. 

ternity,  wdio  ever  flourished  in  times  of  peace.  So  that  if  a  Brother 
should  he  a  rebel  against  the  State,  he  is  not  to  be  countenanced  in 
his  rebellion,  however  he  may  be  pitied  as  an  unhappy  man;  and,  if 
convicted  of  no  other  crime,  though  the  loyal  Brotherhood  must  and 
ought  to  disown  his  rebellion,  and  give  no  umbrage  or  ground  of 
political  jeasousy  to  the  government  for  the  time  being;  they  cannot 
expel  him  from  the  Lodge,  and  his  relation  to  it  remains  indefeasible. 

III.   Of  Lodges. 

A  Lodge  is  a  place  where  Masons  assemble  and  work:  hence  that 
assembly  or  duly  organized  society  of  Masons,  is  called  a  Lodge,  and 
every  Brother  ought  to  belong  to  one,  and  to  be  subject  to  its  By- 
Laws  and  the  General  Regulations.  It  is  either  particular  or  general, 
and  will  be  best  understood  by  attending  it,  and  by  the  Regulations 
of  t lie  Gener.d  or  Grand  Lodge  hereunto  annexed.  In  ancient  times, 
no  Master  or  Fellow  could  be  absent  from  it,  especially  when  warned 
to  appear  at  it,  without  incurring  a  severe  censure,  until  it  appeared 
to  the  Master  and  Wardens,  that  pure  necessity  hindered  him. 

The  persons  admitted  members  of  a  Lodge  must  be  good  and  true 
men,  free-born,  and  of  mature  and  discreet  age,  no  bondmen,  no 
women,  no  immoral  or  scandulous  men,  but  of  good  report. 

IV.  Of  Masters,  Wakdess,  Fellows,  and  Apprentices. 

All  preferment  among  Masons  is  grounded  upon  real  worth  and 
personal  merit  only;  that  so  the  lords  may  be  well  served,  the  Breth- 
ren not  put  to  shame,  nor  the  royal  Craft  depised:  therefore  no  Mas- 
ter or  Warden  is  chosen  by  seniority,  but  for  his  merit.  It  is  impos- 
sible to  describe  these  things  in  writing,  and  every  Brother  must  attend 
in  his  place,  and  learn  them  in  a  way  peculiar  to  this  Fraternity :  only 
candidates  may  know,  that  no  Master  should  take  an  Apprentice,  un- 
less he  has  sufficient  employment  for  him,  and  unless  he  be  a  perfect 
youth,  having  no  maim  or  defect  in  his  body,  that  may  render  him 
incapable  of  learning  the  art,  of  serving  his  Master's  lord,  and  of 
being  made  a  Brother,  and  then  a  Fellow  Craft  in  due  time,  even 
after  he  has  served  such  a  term  of  years  as  the  custom  of  the  country 
directs;  and  that  he  should  be  descended  of  honest  parents;  that  so, 
when  otherwise  qualified,  he  may  arrive  to  the  honour  of  being  the 
Warden,  and  then  the  Master  of  the  Lodge,  the  Grand  Warden,  and 
at  length  the  Grand  Master  of  all  the  Lodges,  according  to  his  merit. 

No  Brother  can  be  a  Warden  until  he  has  passed  the  part  of  aFellowT 
Craft;  nor  a  Master  until  he  has  acted  as  a  Warden,  nor  Grand  War- 
den until  he  lias  been  Master  of  a  Lodge,  nor  Grand   Master  unless  he 


Ancient  Constitutions.  47 

has  been  a  Fellow  Craft  before  his  election,  who  is  also  to  be  nobly 
born,  or  a  gentleman  of  the  best  fashion,  or  some  eminent  scholar,  or 
some  curious  architect,  or  other  artist,  descended  of  honest  parents, 
and  who  is  of  singular  great  merit  in  the  opinion  of  the  Lodges.  And 
for  the  better,  and  easier,  and  more  honourable  discharge  of  his  office, 
the  Grand  .Master  has  a  power  to  choose  ins  own  Deputy  Grand  Mas- 
ter, who  must  be  then,  or  must  have  been  formerly,  the  Master  of  a 
particular  Lodge,  and  lias  the  privilege  of  acting  whatever  the  Grand 
Master,  his  principal,  should  act,  unless  the  said  principal  be  present, 
or  interpose  his  authority  by  a  letter. 

These  rulers  and  governors,  supreme  and  subordinate,  of  the  ancient 
Lodge,  are  to  be  obeyed  in  their  respective  stations  by  all  the  breth- 
ren, according  to  the  old  Charges  and  Regulations,  with  all  humility, 
reverence,  love,  and  alacrity. 

V.  Of  toe  Management  of  the  C:; aft  in  working. 

All  Masons  shall  work  honestly  on  working  days,  that  they  may 
live  creditably  on  holy  days;  and  the  time  appointed  by  the  law  of 
the  land,  or  confirmed  by  custom,  shall  be  observed. 

The  most  expert  of  the  Fellow  Craftsmen  shall  Lie  chosen  or  ap- 
pointed the  Master,  or  overseer  of  the  lord's  work  ;  who  is  to  be  called 
Master  by  those  who  work  under  him.  The  Craftsmen  are  to  avoid 
all  ill  language,  and  to  call  each  other  by  no  disobliging  name,  but 
Brother  or  Fellow;  and  to  behave  themselvss  courteously  within  and 
without  the  Lodge. 

The  Master,  knowing  himself  to  be  able  of  cunning,  shall  undertake 
the  lord's  work  as  reasonably  as  possible,  and  truly  dispend  his  goods 
as  if  they  were  his  own;  nor  to  give  more  wages  to  any  Brother  or 
Apprentice  than  he  really  may  deserve. 

Both  the  Master  and  the  Masons  receiving  their  wages  justly,  shall 
be  faithful  to  the  lord,  and  'Honestly  finish  their  work,  whether  task 
or  journey;  nor  put  the  work  to  task  that  hath  been  accustomed  to 
journey. 

None  shall  discover  envy  at  the  prosperity  of  a  Brother,  nor  sup- 
plant him,  or  put  him  out  of  his  work,  if  he  be  capable  to  finish  the 
same;  for  no  man  can  finish  another's  work  so  much  to  the  lord's 
profit,  unless  he  be  thoroughly  acquainted  with  the  designs  and 
draughts  of  him  that  began  it. 

When  a  Fellow  Craftsman  is  chosen  Warden  of  the  work  under  the 
Master,  he  shall  be  true  both  to  Master  and  Fellows,  sh.dl  carefully 
oversee  the  work  in  the  Master's  absence  to  the  lord's  profit;  and  his 
brethren  shall  obey  him. 


48  Ancient  Constitutions. 

All  Masons  employed,  shall  meekly  receive  their  wag?s  without 
murmuring  or  mutiny,  and  not  desert  the  Master  until  the  work  is 
finished. 

A  younger  Brother  shall  be  instructed  in  working-,  to  prevent  spoil- 
ing the  materials  for  want  of  judgment,  and  for  increasing  and  con- 
tinuing of  brotherly  love. 

All  to  'Is  used  in  working  shall  be  approved  by  the  Grand  Lodge. 

No  laborer  shall  be  employed  in  the  proper  work  of  Masonry,  nor 
shall  Free  Masons  work  with  those  that  are  not  free,  without  an  ur- 
gent necessity;  nor  shall  they  teach  labourers  and  unaccepted  Masons, 
as  they  should  teach  a  Brother  or  Fellow. 

VI.   Of  Behaviour,  viz.  : 

i.  In  the  Lodge  While  Constituted. 

You  are  not  to  hold  private  committees,  or  separate  conversation, 
without  leave  from  the  Master,  nor  to  talk  of  anything  impertinent 
or  unseemly,  nor  interrupt  the  Master  or  \Vardens,  or  any  Brother 
speaking  to  the  Master;  nor  behave  yourself  ludicrously  or  jestingly 
while  the  Lodge  is  engaged  in  what  is  serious  and  solemn;  nor  use 
any  unbecoming  language  upon  any  pretence  whatsoever,  but  to  pay 
due  reverence  to  your  Master,  Wardens,  and  Fellows,  and  put  them 
to  worship. 

If  any  complaint  be  brought,  the  Brother  found  guilty  shall  stand 
to  the  award  and  determination  of  the  Lodge,  who  are  the  proper  and 
competent  judges  of  all  such  controversies,  (unless  you  carry  it  by  appeal 
to  the  Grand  Lodge)  and  to  whom  they  ought  to  be  referred,  unless  a 
lord's  work  be  hindered  the  meanwhile,  in  which  case  a  particular 
reference  may  be  made ;  but  you  must  never  go  to  law  about  what 
concerneth  Masonry,  without  an  absolute  necessity  apparent  to  the 
Lodge. 

2.  Behaviour  after  the  Lodge  is  over,  and  the  Brethren  not  gone. 

You  may  enjoy  yourselves  with  innocent  mirth,  treating  one  an- 
other according  to  ability,  but  avoiding  all  excess,  or  forcing  any 
Brother  to  eat  or  drink  beyond  his  inclination,  or  hindering  him  from 
going  when  his  occasions  call  him,  or  doing  or  saying  anything  offen- 
sive, or  that  may  forbid  an  easy  and  free  conversation  ;  for  that  would 
blast  our  harmony,  and  defeat  our  laudable  purposes.  Therefore  no 
private  piques  or  quarrels  must  be  brought  within  the  door  of  the 
Lodge,  far  less  any  quarrels  about  religion,  or  nations,  or  state  policy, 
we  being  only,  as  Masons,  of  the  Catholic  religion  above  mentioned; 
we  are  also  of  all  nations,  tongues,  kindreds,  and  languages,  and  are 


Ancient  Constitutions.  49 

xesolved  against  all  polities,  as  what  never  yet  conduced  to  the  wel- 
fare of  the  Lodge,  nor  ever  will.  This  Charge  has  been  always  strictly 
enjoined  and  observed :  but  especially  ever  since  the  Reformation  in 
Britain,  or  the  dissent  and  secession  of  these  nations  from  the  com- 
munion of  Rome. 

3.  Behaviour  when    Brethren    meet    without   Strangers,  but    not    in    a 
Lodge  formed. 

You  are  to  salute  one  another  in  a  courteous  manner,  as  you  will  be 
instructed,  calling  each  other  Brother,  freely  giving  mutual  instruc- 
tion as  shall  be  thought  expedient,  without  being  overseen  or  over- 
heard, and  without  encroaching  upon  each  other,  or  derogating  from 
that  respect  which  is  due  to  any  Brother,  were  he  not  a  Mason :  for 
though  all  Masons  are  as  Brethren  upon  the  same  level,  yet  Masonry 
takes  no  honour  from  a  man  that  he  had  before;  nay,  rather  it  adds  to 
his  honour,  especially  if  he  has  deserved  we'l  of  the  Brotherhood, 
who  must  give  honour  to  whom  it  is  due,  and  avoid  ill  manners. 

4.  Behaviour  in  Presence  of  Strangers  not  Masons. 

You  shall  be  cautious  in  your  words  and  carriage,  that  the  most 
penetrating  stranger  shall  not  be  able  to  discover  or  find  out  what  is 
not  proper  to  be  intimated;  and  sometimes  you  shall  divert  a  dis- 
course, and  manage  it  prudently  for  the  honour  of  the  worshipful 
Fraternity. 

5.  Behaviour  at  Home,  and  in  your  Neighbourhood. 
You  are  to  act  as  becomes  a  moral  and  wise  man ;  particularly,  not 
to  let  your  family,  friends,  and  neighbours  know  the  concerns  of  the 
Lodge,  &c,  but  wisely  to  consult  your  own  honour,  and  that  of  the 
ancient  Brotherhood,  for  reasons  not  to  be  mentioned  here.  You  must 
also  consult  your  health,  by  not  continuing  together  too  bite,  or  too 
long  from  home,  after  Lodge  hours  are  past ;  and  by  avoiding  of 
gluttony  or  drunkenness,  that  your  families  be  not  neglected  or  in- 
jured, nor  you  disabled  from  working. 

6.    Behaviour  towards  a  strange  Brother. 

You  are  cautiously  to  examine  him,  in  such  a  method  as  prudence 
shall  direct  you,  that  you  may  not  be  imposed  upon  by  an  ignorant 
false  pretender,  whom  you  are  to  reject  with  contempt  and  derision, 
and  beware  of  giving  him  any  hints  of  knowledge. 

But  if  you  discover  him  to  be  a  true  and  genuine  Brother,  you  are 
to  respect  him  accordingly;  and  if   he  is   in  want,  you    must   relieve 


SO  Ancient  Constitutions: 

him  if  you  can,  or  else  direct  him  how  he  may  be  relieved:  you  must 
employ  him  some  days,  or  else  recommend  him  to  be  employed.  But 
you  are  not  charged  to  do  beyond  your  ability,  only  to  prefer  a  pour 
Brother,  that  is  a  good  man  and  true,  before  any  other  poor  people  in 
the  same  circumstances. 

Finally,  all  these  charges  you  are  to  observe,  and  also  those  that  shall, 
be  communicated  to  you  in  another  way:  cultivating  brotherly  loveT 
the  foundation  and  cape  stone,  the  cement  and  glory  of  this  ancient 
Fraternity,  avoiding  all  wrangling  and  quarreling,  all  slander  and 
backbiting,  nor  permit  others  to  slander  any  honest  Brother,  but  de- 
fending his  character,  and  doing  him  all  good  offices,  as  far  as  is  con- 
sistent with  your  honor  and  safety,  and  no  farther.  And  if  any  of 
them  do  you  injury,  you  must  apply  to  your  own  or  his  Lodge;  and 
from  thence  you  may  appeal  to  the  Grand  Lodge  at  the  quarterly 
communication,  and  from  thence  to  the  annual  Grand  Lodge,  as  has 
been  the  ancient  laudable  conduct  of  our  forefathers  in  every  nation; 
never  taking  a  legal  course  but  when  the  case  cannot  be  otherwise 
decided,  and  patiently  listening  to  the  honest  and  friendly  advice  of 
Master  and  Fellows,  when  they  would  prevent  your  going  to  law  with 
strangers,  or  would  excite  you  to  put  a  speedy  period  to  all  law  suits, 
that  so  you  may  miud  the  affair  of  Masonry  with  more  alacrity  and 
success;  but  with  respect  to  Brothers  or  Fellows  at  law,  the  iMaster 
and  Brethren  should  kindly  ofter  their  mediation,  which  ought  to  be 
thankfully  submitted  to  by  the  contending  Brethren;  and  if  that  sub- 
mission is  impracticable,  they  must  however  carry  on  their  process,  or 
law- suit,  without  wrath  and  rancor  (not  in  the  common  way)  saying 
or  doing  nothing  which  may  hinder  brotherly  love,  and  good  offices 
to  be  renewed  and  continued;  that  all  may  see  the  benign  influence 
of  Masonry,  as  all  true  Masons  have  done  from  the  beginning  of  the 
world,  and  will  do  to  the  end  of  time — Amen,  so  mote  it  be. 


GENERAL  REGULATIONS. 


Compiled  first  by  Mr.  George  Payne,  Anno  l^O,  when  be  was  Grand 
Master,  and  approved  by  the  Grand  Lodge  on  St.  John  Baptist's 
Day,  Anno  1721.,  at  Stationer's  Hall,  London;  when  the  most  noble 
Prince  John  Duke  of  Montagu  was  unanimously  chosen  our  Grand 
Master  for  the  year  ensuing;  who  chose  John  Beal,  M.  D.,  his 
Deputy  Grand  Master;  Mr  Josiah  Villeneau  and  Mr.  Thomas  Mor- 
ris, jun.,  were  chosen  by  the  Lodge  Grand  Wardens.  And  now. 
by  command  of  our  said  Right  Worshipful  Grand  Master  Montagu, 
the  author  of  this  book  has  compared  them  with,  and  reduced  them 
to  the  ancient  records  and  immemorial  usages  of  the  Fraternity, 
and  digested  them  into  this  new  method,  with  several  proper  ex- 
plications, for  the  use  of  the  Lodges  in  and  about  London  and 
Westminster. 

Authority  of  the  Grand  Master  or  Deputy. 

I  The  Grand  Master,  or  his  Deputy,  hath  authority  and  right,  not 
•only  to  be  present  in  any  true  Lodge,  but  also  to  preside  wherever  he 
is,  with  the  Master  of  the  Lodge  on  his  left  hand,  and  to  order  his 
Grand  Wardens  to  attend  him,  who  are  not  to  act  in  particular  Lodges 
as  Wardens,  but  in  his  presence,  and  at  his  command;  because  there 
the  Grand  Master  may  command  the  Wardens  of  that  Lodge,  or  any 
•other  Brethren  he  plea,seth,  to  attend  and  act  as  his  Wardens  pro 
tempore. 

Powers  of  Master. 

II.  The  Master  of  a  particular  Lodge  has  the  right  and  authority  of 
congregating  the  members  of  his  Lodge  into  a  chapter  at  pleasure, 
upon  any  emergency  or  occurrence,  as  well  as  to  appoint  the  time  and 
place  of  their  usual  forming;  and  in  case  of  sickness,  death,  or  nec- 
essary absence  of  the  Master,  the  senior  Warden  shall  act  as  Master 
pro  tempore,  if  no  brother  is  present  who  has  been  Master  of  that 
Lodge  before  ;  for  in  that  case  the  absent  Master's  authority  reverts 
to  the  last  Master  then  present;  though  lie  cannot  act  until  the  said 
senior  Warden  has  once  congregated  the  Lodge,  or  in  his  absence  the 
junior  Warden. 


ox  Ancient  Constitution s. 

By-Laws,  &c  ,  How  Kept. 

IH.  The  Master  of  each  particular  Lodge,  or  one  of  the  Wardens-,, 
or  some  other  Brother  by  his  order,  shall  keep  a  book  containing  their 
by-laws,  the  names  of  their  members,  with  a  list  of  all  the  Lodges  in. 
town,  and  the  usual  times  and  places  of  their  forming,  and  all  their 
transactions  that  are  proper  to  be  written. 

Limit  to  Number  Initiated  at  one  Time— Age,  &c, 

IV.  No  Lodge  shall  make  more  than  five  new  Brethren  at  one  time,, 
nor  any  man  under  the  age  of  twenty- five,  who  must  be  also  his  own 
master ;  unless  by  a  dispensation  from  the  Grand  Master  or  his 
Deputy. 

One  Month's  Notice  to  be  Given. 

V.  No  man  can  be  made  or  admitted  a  member  of  a  particular 
Lodge,  without  previous  notice  one  month  before  given  to  the  said 
Lodge,  in  order  to  make  clue  inquiry  into  the  reputation  and  capacity 
of  the  candidate ;  unless  by  the  dispensation  aforesaid. 

Unanimous  Consent  Necessary — Right  of  Objection. 

VI.  But  no  man  can  be  entered  a  Brother  in  any  particular  Lodge,, 
or  admitted  to  be  a  member  thereof,  without  the  unanimous  consent 
of  all  the  members  of  that  Lodge  then  present  when  the  candidate  is. 
proposed,  and  their  consent  is  formally  asked  by  the  Master;  and 
they  are  to  signify  their  consent  or  dissent  in  their  own  prudent  wav, 
either  virtually  or  in  form,  but  with  unanimity:  nor  is  this  inherent 
privilege  subject  to  a  dispensation ;  because  the  members  of  a  parti- 
cular Lodge  are  the  best  judges  of  it;  and  if  a  fractious .  member 
should  be  imposed  on  them,  it  might  spoil  their  harmony,  or  hinder 
their  freedom;  or  even  break  and  disperse  the  Lodge,  which  ought  to 
be  avoided  by  all  good  and  true  Brethren. 

Charity  Fund — Obedience  to  Laws,  &c. 

VII.  Every  new  Brother  at  his  making  is  decently  to  clothe  the 
Lodge,  that  is,  all  the  Brethren  present,  and  to  deposit  something  for 
the  relief  of  indigent  and  decayed  Brethren,  as  the  candidate  shall 
think  fit  to  bestow,  over  and  above  the  small  allowance  stated  by  the 
by  laws  of  that  particular  Lodge;  which  charity  shall  be  lodged  with 
the  Master  or  Wardens,  or  the  Cashier,  if  the  members  think  fit  to 
choose  one. 

And  the  candidate  shall  also  solemnly  promise  to  submit  to  the 
Constitutions,  the  Charges,  and  Regulations,  and  to  such  other  good 
usages  as  shall  be  intimated  to  them  in  time  and  place  convenient. 


Ancient  Constitutions.  53 

Establishment  of  new  Lodges— Affiliation. — Clandestine  Lodges. 

VIII.  No  set  or  number  of  Brethren  shall  withdraw  or  separate 
themselves  from  the  Lodge  in  which  they  were  made  Brethren,  or 
were  afterwards  admitted  members,  unless  the  Lodge  becomes  too 
numerous;  nor  even  then,  without  a  dispensation  from  the  Grand 
Master  or  his  Deputy;' and  when  they  are  thus  separated,  they  must 
either  immediately  join  themselves  to  such  other  Lodge  as  they  shall 
like  best,  with  the  unanimous  consent  of  that  other  Lodge  to  which 
they  go  (as  above  regulated)  or  else  they  must  obtain  the  Grand  Mas- 
ter's warrant  to  join  in  forming  a  new  Lodge. 

If  any  set  or  number  of  Masons  shall  take  upon  themselves  to  form 
a  Lodge  without  the  Grand  Master's  warrant,  the  regular  Lodgas  are 
not  to  countenance  them,  nor  own  them  as  fair  Brethren  and  duly 
formed,  nor  approve  of  their  acts  and  deeds;  but  must  treat  them  as 
rebels,  until  they  humble  themselves,  as  the  Grand  Master  shall  in  his 
prudence  direct,  and  until  he  approve  of  them  by  his  warrant,  which 
must  be  signified  to  the  other  Lodges,  as  the  custom  is  when  a  new 
Lodge  is  to  be  registered  in  the  list  of  Lodges. 

Unmasonic  Conduct — Punishment  of. 

IX.  But  if  any  Brother  so  far  misbehave  himself  as  to  render  his 
Lodge  uneasy,  he  shall  be  twice  duly  admonished  by  the  Master  or 
Wardens  in  a  formed  Lodge ;  and  if  he  will  not  refrain  his  impru- 
dence, and  obediently  submit  to  the  advice  of  the  Brethren,  and  re- 
form what  gives  them  offence,  he  shall  be  dealt  with  according  to  the 
by-laws  of  that  particular  Lodge,  or  else  in  such  a  manner  as  the 
quarterly  communication  shall  in  their  great  prudence  think  fit;  for 
which  a  new  regulation  may  be  afterwards  made. 

Right  of  Lodge  to  Instruct  Officers  and  Representatives. 

X.  The  majority  of  every  particular  Lodge,  when  congregated, 
shall  have  the  privilege  of  giving  instructions  to  their  Master  and 
Wardens,  before  the  assembling  of  the  Grand  Chapter,  or  Lodge,  at 
the  three  quarterly  communications  hereafter  mentioned,  and  of  the 
annual  Grand  Lodge  too;  because  their  Master  and  Wardens  are  their 
representatives,  and  are  supposed  to  speak  their  mind. 

Uniformity  of  Usages  to  be  Observed. 

XL  All  particular  Lodges  are  to  observe  the  same  usages  as  much 
as  possible;  in  order  to  which,  and  for  cultivating  a  good  under- 
standing among  Free  Masons,  some  members  out  of  every  Lodge  shall 

8 


5 Jf  Ancient  Constitutions. 

be  deputed  to  visit  the  other  Lodges  as  often  as  shall  be  thought  con- 
venient. 

Grand  Lod^e  — How  Formed  and  Regulated. 

XII.  The  Grand  Lodge  consists  of,  and  is  Former]  by  the  Masters 
and  Wardens  of  all  the  regular  particular  Lodges  upon  record,  with 
the  Grand  Master  at  their  head,  and  his  Deputy  on  his  left  hand,  and 
the  Grand  Wardens  in  their  proper  places;  aucl  must  have  a  quarterly 
communication  about  Michaelmas,  Christmas,  and  Lady-Day,  in  some 
convenient  place,  as  the  Grand  Master  shall  appoint,  where  no  Brother 
shall  be  present,  who  is  not  at  that  time  a  member  thereof,  without  a 
dispensation  ;  and  while  he  stays,  he  shall  not  be  allowed  to  vote,  nor 
even  give  his  opinion,  without  leave  of  the  Grand  Lodge  asked  and 
given,  or  unless  it  be  duly  asked  by  the  said  Lodge. 

All  matters  are  to  be  determined  in  the  Grand  Lodge  by  a  majority 
of  votes,  each  member  having  one  vote,  and  the  Grand  Master  having 
two  votes,  unless  the  said  Lodge  leave  any  particular  tiling  to  the 
determination  of  the  Grand  Master,  for  the  sake  of  expedition. 

General  Items  of  Business  of  Grand  lodge  Indicated. 

XIII.  At  the  said  quarterly  communication,  all  matters  that  con- 
cern the  Fraternity  in  general,  or  particular  Lodges,  or  single  Bretli 
ren,  are  quietly,  sedately,  and  maturely  to  be  discoursed  of  and  trans- 
acted: Apprentices  must  be  admitted  Masters  and  Fellow  Craft  only 
here,  unless  by  a  dispensation.  Here  also  all  differences,  that  cannot 
be  made  up  and  accommodated  privately,  nor  by  a  particular  Lodge, 
are  to  be  seriously  considered  and  decided  :  and  if  any  Brother  thinks 
himself  aggrieved  by  the  decision  of  this  Board,  he  may  appeal  to  the 
annual  Grand  Lodge  next  ensuing,  and  leave  his  appeal  in  writing, 
with  the  Grand  Master,  or  his  Deputy,  or  the  Grand  Wardens. 

Here  also  the  Master  or  the  Wardens  of  each  particular  Lodge  shall 
bring  and  produce  a  list  of  such  members  as  have  been  made  or  even 
admitted  in  their  particular  Lodges  since  the  last  communication  of 
the  Grand  Lodge :  and  there  shall  be  a  book  kept  by  the  Grand 
Master,  or  his  Deputy,  or  rather  by  some  Brother  whom  the  Grand 
Lodge  shall  appoint  for  Secretary,  wherein  shall  be  recorded  all  the 
Lodges,  with  their  usual  times  and  places  of  forming,  and  the  names 
of  all  the  members  of  each  Lodge;  and  all  the  affairs  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  that  are  proper  to  be  written. 

They  shall  also  consider  of  the  most  prudent  and  effectual  methods 
of  collecting  and  disposing  of  what  money  shall  be  given  to,  or  lodged 
with,  them  in  charity,  towards  the  relief  only  of  any  true  Brother 
fallen  into   poverty   or    decay,  but    none    else:  but    every   particular 


,liici:'iit  Constitutions.  55 

Lodge  shall  dispose  of  their  own  charity  for  poor  Brethren,  according 
to  their  own  by-laws,  until  it  be  agreed  by  all  the  Lodges  (in  a  new 
regulation)  to  carry  in  the  charity  collected  by  them  to  the  Grand 
Lodge,  at  the  quarterly  or  annual  communication,  in  order  to  make  a 
common  stock  of  it,  for  the  more  handsome  relief  of  poor  Brethren. 

They  shall  also  appoint  a  Treasurer,  a  Brother  of  good  worldly  sub- 
stance, who  shall  be  a  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge  by  virtue  of  his 
office,  and  shall  be  always  present,  and  have  power  to  move  to  the 
Grand  Lodge  anything,  especially  what  concerns  his  office.  To  him 
shall  be  committed  all  money  raised  for  charity,  or  for  any  other  use 
of  the  Grand  Lodge,  which  he  shall  write  down  in  a  book,  with  the 
respective  ends  and  uses  for  which  the  several  sums  are  intended; 
and  shall  expend  or  disburse  the  same  by  such  a  certain  order  signed, 
as  the  Grand  Lodge  shall  afterwards  agree  to  in  a  new  regulation: 
but  he  shall  not  vote  in  choosing  a  Grand  Master  or  Wardens,  though 
in  every  other  transaction.  As  in  like  manner  the  Secretary  shall  be 
a  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge  by  virtue  of  his  office,  and  vote  in 
everything  except  in  chosing  a  Grand  Master  or  Warden. 

The  Treasurer  and  Secretary  shall  have  each  a  clerk,  who  must  be 
a  Brother  and  Fellow  Craft,  but  never  must  be  a  member  of  the  Graud 
Lodge,  nor  speak  without  being  allowed  or  desired. 

The  Grand  Master,  or  his  Deputy,  shall  always  command  the  Treas- 
urer and  Secretary,  with  their  clerks  aud  books,  in  order  to  see  how 
matters  go  on,  and  to  know  what  is  expedient  to  be  done  upon  any 
emergent  occasion. 

Another  Brother  (who  must  he  a  Fellow  Craft)  should  be  appointed 
to  look  after  the  door  of  the  Grand  Lodge;  but  shall  be  no  member 
of  it. 

But  these  offices  may  be  farther  explained  by  a  new  regulation, 
when  the  necessity  and  expediency  of  them  may  more  appear  than  at 
present  to  the  Fraternity. 

Who  to  Preside  in  Grand  Lodge. 

XIV.  If  at  any  Grand  Lodge,  seated  or  occasional,  quarterly  or 
annual,  the  Grand  Master  and  his  Deputy  should  be  both  absent,  then 
the  present  Master  of  a  Lodge,  that  has  been  the  longest  a  Free 
Mason,  shall  take  the  Chair,  and  preside  as  Grand  Master  pro  tempore; 
and  shall  be  vested  with  all  his  power  and  honour  for  the  time;  pro- 
vided there  is  no  Brother  present  that  has  been  Grand  Master  for- 
merly, or  Deputy  Grand  Master ;  for  the  last  Grand  Master  present, 
or  else  the  last  Deputy  present,  should  always  of  right  take  place  in 
the  absence  of  the  present  Grand  Master  and  his  Deputy. 


56  Ancient  Constitutions. 

Supplying  Stations. 

XV.  In  the  Grand  Lodge  none  can  act  as  Wardens  but  the  Grand 
Wardens  themselves,  if  present;  and  if  absent,  the  Grand  Master,  or 
the  person  who  presides  in  his  place,  shall  order  private  Wardens  to 
act  as  Grand  Wardens  pro  tempore,  whose  places  are  to  be  supplied  by 
two  Fellow  Craft  of  the  same  Lodge,  called  forth  to  act,  or  sent 
thither  by  the  particular  Master  theieof ;  or  if  by  him  omitted,  then 
they  shall  be  called  by  the  Grand  Master,  that  so  the  Grand  Lodge 
may  be  always  complete. 

Deputies  — Duties  of. 

XVI.  The  Grand  Wardens,  or  any  others,  are  first  to  advise  with 
the  Deputy  about  the  affairs  of  the  Lodge  or  of  the  Brethren,  and 
not  to  apply  to  the  Giand  Master  without  the  knowledge  of  the 
Deputy,  unless  he  refuse  his  concurrence  in  any  certain  necessary 
f.ffair  ;  in  which  case,  or  in  case  of  any  difference  between  the  Deputy 
and  the  Giand  Wardens,  or  oilier  Brethren,  both  parties  are  to  go  by 
concert  to  the  Grand  Faster,  who  can  easily  decide  the  controversy 
and  make  up  the  differences  by  virtue  of  his  great  authority. 

The  Grand  Master  should  receive  no  intimation  of  business  concern- 
ing Masonry,  but  frcrn  his  Deputy  first,  except  in  such  certain  cases 
as  his  Worship  can  well  judge  of;  for  if  the  application  to  the  Grand 
Master  be  irregular,  he  can  easily  order  the  Giand  Wardens,  or  any 
other  Brethren  thus  applying,  to  wait  upon  his  Deputy,  who  is  to  pre- 
pare the  business  speedily,  and  to  lay  it   orderly  before   his  AYorship. 

Ineligibility  of  Grand  Officers  to  Lodge  Offices. 

XVII.  Xo  Grand  Master,  Deputy  Grand  Master,  Grand  Wardens, 
Treasurer,  Secretary,  or  whoever  acts  for  them,  or  in  their  stead  pro 
tempore,  can  at  the  same  time  be  the  Master  or  Warden  of  a  particular 
Lodge;  but  as  soon  as  any  of  them  has  honourably  discharged  his 
grand  office,  he  returns  to  that  post  or  station  in  his  particular  Lodge, 
from  which  he  was  called  to  officiate  above. 

Appointment  of  Deputies  pro  tern. 

XVIII.  If  the  Deputy  Grand  Master  be  sick,  or  necessarily  absent, 
the  Grand  Master  may  choose  any  Fellow  Craft  he  pleases  to  be  his 
Deputy  pro  tempore :  but  he  that  is  chosen  Deputy  at  the  Grand 
Lodge,  and  the  Grand  Wardens  too,  cannot  be  discharged  without 
the  cause  fairly  appearing  to  the  majority  of  the  Grand  Lodge;  and 
the  Grand  Master,  if  he  is  uneasy,  may  call  a  Grand  Lodge  on  pur- 
pose to  lay  the  cause  before  them,  and  to  have  their  advice  and  con- 
currence: in  which  case,  the  majority  of  the  Grand  Lodge,    if  they 


Ancient  Constitutions.  57 

■cannot  reconcile  the  Master  and  his  Deputy  or  his  Wardens,  are  to 
concur  in  allowing  Ihe  Master  to  discharge  his  said  Deputy  or  his  said 
Wardens,  and  to  choose  another  Deputy  immediately;  and  the  said 
Grand  I  odge  shall  choose  other  Wardens  in  that  case,  that  -harmony 
and  peace  may  he  preserved. 

Arraignment  of  Grand  Master. 

XIX.  If  the  Grand  Master  should  abuse  his  power,  and  render  him- 
self unworthy  of  the  obedience  and  subjection  of  the  Lodges,  he  shall 
be  treated  in  a  way  and  manner  to  be  agreed  upon  in  a  new  regula- 
tion ;  because  hitherto  the  ancient  Fraternity  have  had  no  occasion 
for  it,  their  former  Grand  Masters  having  all  -behaved  themselves 
worthy  of  that  honourablo  office. 

Visitations. 

XX.  The  Grand  Master,  with  his  Deputy  and  Wardens,  shall  (at 
least  once)  go  round  and  visit  all  the  Lodges  about  town  during  his 
Mastership. 

Death  of  Grand  Master—  Successor  to. 

XXI  If  the  Grand  Master  die  during  his  Mastership,  or  by  sickness^ 
or  by  being  l.ey<  i.d  the  sea,  or  any  other  way  should  be  rendered  in- 
capable of  discharging  his  office,  the  Deputy,  or  in  his  absence,  the 
senior  Grand  Warden,  or  in  his  absence  the  junior,  or  in  his  absence 
any  three  present  Masters  of  Lodges,  shall  join  to  congregate  the 
Grand  Lodge  immediately,  to  advise  together  upon  that  emergency, 
and  to  send  two  of  their  number  to  invite  the  last  Grand  Master  to 
resume  his  office,  which  now  in  course  reverts  to  him  ;  or  if  he  refuse, 
then  the  next  last,  and  so  backward  ■  but  if  no  former  Grand  Master 
can  be  found,  then  the  Deputy  shall  act  as  Principal  until  another  is 
chosen:  or  if  there  be  no  Deputy,  then  the  oldest  Master. 

Feast  Days. 

XXII.  The  Brethren  of  all  the  Lodges  in  and  about  London  and 
Westminster,  shall  meet  at  an  Annual  Communication  and  Feast,  in 
some  convenient  place,  on  St.  John  Baptist's  Day,  or  else  on  St.  John 
Evangelist's  Day,  as  the  Grand  Lodge  shall  think  fit  by  a  new  regu- 
lation, having  of  late  years  met  on  St.  John  Baptist's  Day:  Provided, 

The  majority  of  the  Masters  and  Wardens,  with  the  Grand  Master, 
his  Deputy  and  Wardens,  agree  at  their  quarterly  communication, 
three  months  before,  that  there  shall  be  a  Feast,  and  a  general  com- 
munication of  all  the  Brethren  :  for  if  either  the  Grand  Master,  or  the 


S>8  Ancient  Constitutions. 

majority  of  the  particular  Masters,  are  against  it,  it  must  be  dropped 
for  that  time. 

But  whether  there  shall  be  a  Feast  for  all  the  Brethren,  or  not,  yet 
the  Grand  Lodge  must  meet  in  some  convenient  place  annually  on  St- 
John's  Day ;  or  if  it  be  Sunday,  then  on-  the  next  day,  in  order  to 
choose  every  year  a  new  Grand  Master,  Deputy,  and  Wardens. 

Preparation  for  Feasts. 

XXIII.  If  it  be  thought  expedient,  and  the  Grind  Master,  with  the 
majority  of  the  Masters  and  Wardens,  agree  to  hold  a  Grand  Feast,, 
according  to  the  ancient  laudable  customs  of  Masons^  then  the  Grand 
Wardens  shall  have  the  care  of  preparing  the  tickets,  sealed  with  the 
Grand  Master's  seal,  of  disposing  of  the  tickets,  of  receiving  the 
money  for  the  tickets,  of  buying  the  materials  of  the  Feast,  of  finding 
out  a  proper  and  convenient  place  to  feast  in ;  and  of  every  other 
thing  that  concerns  the  entertainment. 

But  that  the  work  may  not  be  too  burdensome  to  the  two  Grand 
Wardens,  and  that  all  matters  may  be  expeditiously  and  safely  man- 
aged, the  Grand  Master,  or  his  Deputy,  shall  have  power  to  nominate 
and  appoint  a  certain  number  of  Stewards,  as  his  Worship  shall  think. 
fit,  to  act  in  concert  with  the  two  Grand  Wardens;  all  things  relating" 
to  the  Feast  being  decided  amongst  them  by  a  majority  of  voices  ; 
except  the  Grand  Master  or  his  Deputy  interpose  by  a  particular 
direction  or  appointment. 

Financial  Provisions  for  Feasts. 

XXIV.  The  Wardens  and  Stewards  shall,  in  due  time,  wait  upon 
the  Grand  Master,  or  his  Deputy,  for  directions  and  orders  about  the 
premises:  but  if  his  Worship  and  his  Deputy  are  sick,  or  necessarily 
absent,  they  shall  call  together  the  Masters  and  Wardens  of  Lodges  to 
meet  on  purpose  for  their  advice  and  orders;  or  else  they  may  take 
the  matter  wholly  upon  themselves,  and  do  the  best  they  can. 

The  Grand  Wardens  and  the  Stewards  are  to  account  for  all  the 
money  they  receive,  or  expend,  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  after  dinner,  or 
when  the  Grand  Lodge  shall  think  fit  to  receive  their  accounts. 

If  the  Grand  Master  pleases,  he  may  in  due  time  summon  all  the 
Masters  and  Wardens  of  Lodges  to  consult  with  them  about  ordering- 
the  Grand  Feast,  and  about  any  emergency  or  accidental  thing-  rela- 
ting thereunto,  that  may  require  advice ;  or  else  to  take  it  upon  himself 
altogether. 

Tilers  at  Feasts. 

XXV.  The  Masters  of  Lodges  shall  each  appoint  one   experienced 


Ancient  Constitutions.  51) 

;and  discreet  Fellow  Craft  of  his  Lodge,  to  compose  a  committee,  con- 
sisting of  one  from  every  Lodge,  who  shall  meet  to  receive,  in  a  con- 
venient apartment,  every  person  that  brings  a  ticket,  and  shall  have 
power  to  discourse  him,  if  they  think  fit,  in  order  to  admit  him,  or 
■debar  him,  as  they  shall  see  cause-:  Provided  they  send  no  man  away 
before  they  have  acquainted  all  the  Brethren  within  doors  with  the 
.reasons  thereot,  to«avoid  mistakes:  that  so  no  true  Brother  may  be 
debarred,  nor  a  false  Brother,  or  mere  pretender,  admitted.  This 
(Committee  must  meet  very  early  on  St.  John's  Day,  at  the  place,  even 
before  any  persons  come  with  tickets. 

JDoor-keepers  at  Feasts. 

XXYI.  The  Grand  Master  shall  appoint  two  or  more  trusty  Breth- 
ren to  be  porters,  or  door  keepers,  who  are  also  to  be  early  at  the 
place,  for  some  good  reasons;  and  who  are  to  be  at  the  command  of 
the  committee. 

Services  to  Guests, 

XXYII,  The  Grand  Wardens,  or  the  Stewards,  shall  appoint  before- 
hand such  a  number  of  Brethren  to  serve  at  table  as  they  think  fit  and 
proper  for  that  work;;  and  they  mny  advise  with  the  Masters  and 
Wardens  v.i  Lodges  about  the  most  proper  persons,  if  they  please,  or 
may  take  in  such  by  their  recommendation;  for  none  are  to  serve 
that  day,  but  free  and  accepted  Masons,  that  the  communication  may 
be  free  and  harmonious. 

Appeals  Made  at  Feasts— Decorum  Observed. 

XXVIII.  All  the  members  of  the  Grand  Lodge  must  be  at  the  place 
long  before  dinner,  with  the  Grand  Master,  or  his  Deputy,  at  their 
head,  who  shall  retire,  and  form  themselves.  And  this  is  done  in 
order, 

1.  To  receive  any  appeals  duly  lodged,  as  above  regulated,  that  the 
appellant  may  be  heard,  and  the  affair  may  be  amicably  decided  be- 
fore dinner,  if  possible;  but  if  it  cannot,  it  must  be  delayed  till  after 
the  new  Grand  Master  is  elected;  and  if  it  cannot  be  decided  after 
dinner,  it  may  be  delayed,  and  referred  to  a  particular  committee, 
that  shall  quietly  adjust  it,  and  make  report  to  the  next  quarterly 
communication,  that  brotherly  love  may  be  preserved. 

2.  To  prevent  any  difference  or  disgust  which  may  be  feared  to 
arise  that  day;  that  no  interruption  may  be  given  to  the  harmony  and 
pleasure  of  the  Grand  Feast, 

3.  To  consult  about  whatever  concerns  the  decency  and  decorum  of 


60  Ancient  Constitutions , 

the  grand  assembly,  and  to  prevent  all  indecency  and  ill  manners,  the 
assembly  being  promiscuous.  ,  * 

4.  To  receive  and  consider  of  any  good  motion,  or  any  momentous 
and  important  affair,  that  shall  be  brought  from  the  particular  Lodges, 
by  their  representatives,  the  several  Masters  and  Wardens. 

Grand  Master — How  and  When  Nominated. 

XXIX.  After  these  things  are  discussed,  the  Grand  Master  and  his 
Deputy,  the  Grand  Wardens,  or  the  Stewards,  the  Secretary,  the 
Treasurer,  the  Clerks,  and  every  other  person,  shall  withdraw,  and 
leave  the  Masters  and  Wardens  of  the  particular  Lodges  alone,  in  or 
der  to  consult  amicably  about  electing  a  new  Grand  Master,  or  con- 
tinuing the  present,  if  they  have  not  done  it  the  day  before ;  and  if 
they  are  unanimous  for  continuing  the  present  Grand  Master,  his- 
Worship  shall  be  called  in,  and  humbly  desired  to  do  the  Fraternity 
the  honour  of  ruling  them  for  the  year  ensuing:  and  after  dinner  it 
will  be  known  whether  he  accepts  of  it  or  not;  for  it  should  not  be 
discovered  but  by  the  election  itself.. 

Consultation. 

XXX.  Then  the  Masters  and  Wardens,  and  all  the  Brethren,  may 
converse  promiscuously,  or  as  they  please  to  sort  together,  until  the 
dinner  is  coming  in,  when  every  Brother  takes  bis  seat  at  table. 

Grand  Lodge  Formed  at  Feast. 

XXXI.  Some  time  after  dinner  the  Grand  Lodge  is-  formed,  riot  in 
retirement,  but  in  the  presence  of  all  the  Brethren,  who  yet  are  not 
members  of  it,  and  must  not  therefore  speak  until  they  are  desired 
and  allowed. 

Election  and  Salutation  of  Grand  Master. 

XXXII.  If  the  Grand  Master  of  last  year  has  consented  with  the 
Master  and  Wardens  in  private,  before  dinner,  to  continue  for  the 
year  ensuing;  then  one  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  deputed  for  that  purpose, 
shall  represent  to  all  the  Brethren  his  Worship's  good  government. 
&c.  And  turning  to  him,  shall,  in  the  name  of  the  Grand  Lodge, 
humbly  request  him  to  do  the  Fraternity  the  great  honour  (if  nobly 
born,  if  not)  the  great  kindness  of  continuing  to  be  their  Grand 
Master  for  the  year  ensuing.  And  his  Worship  declaring  his  consent 
by  a  bowT  or  a  speech,  as  he  pleases,  the  said  deputed  member  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  shall  proclaim  him  Grand  Master,  and  all  the  members- 
of  the  Lodge  shall  salute  him  in  due  form.  And  all  the  Brethren 
shall  for  a  few  minutes  have  leave  to  declare  their  satisfaction,  pleas- 
ure, and  congratulation. 


Ancient  Constitutions  61 

Election  t;>  be  Unanimous. 

XXXIII.  But  if  either  the  Master  and  Wardens  have  not  in  private, 
this  day  before  dinner,  nor  the  day  before,  desired  the  last  Grand 
Master  to  continue  in  the  Mastership  another  year;  or  if  he,  when 
desired,  has  not  consented:  then, 

The  last  Grand  Master  shall  nominate  his  successor  for  the  year  en- 
suing, who,  if  unanimously  approved  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  if 
there  present,  shall  be  proclaimed,  saluted,  and  congratulated  the 
new  Grand  Master,  as  above  hinted,  and  immediately  installed  by  the 
last  Grand  Master,  according  to  usage. 

Election  by  Ballot  if  Dissent  is  Expressed. 

XXXIV.  But  if  that  nomination  is  not  unanimously  approved,  the 
new  Grand  Master  shall  be  chosen  immediately  by  ballot,  every  Master 
and  Warden  writing  his  man's  name,  and  the  last  Grand  Master 
writing  his  man's  name  too;  and  the  man,  whose  name  the  last  Grand 
Master  shall  first  take  out,  casually  or  bv  chance,  shall  be  Grand  Mas- 
ter for  the  year  ensuing;  and  if  present,  he  shall  be  proclaimed, 
saluted,  and  congratulated,  as  above  hinted,  and  forthwith  installed 
by  the  last  Grand  Master,  according  to  usage. 

Appointment  of  other  Grand  Officers. 

XXXV.  The  last  Grand  Master  thus  continued,  or  the  new  Grand 
Master  thus  installed,  shall  next  nominate  and  appoint  his  Deputy 
Grand  Master,  either  the  last  or  a  new  one,  who  shall  be  also  declared, 
saluted  and  congratulated  as  above  hinted. 

The  Grand  Master  shall  also  nominate  the  new  Grand  Wardens,  and 
if  unanimously  approved  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  shall  be  declared, 
saluted,  and  congratulated,  as  above  hinted;  but  if  not,  they  shall  be 
chosen  by  ballot,  in  the  same  way  as  the  Grand  Master:  as  the  War- 
dens of  private  Lodges  are  also  to  be  chosen  by  ballot  in  each  Lodge, 
if  the  members  thereof  do  not  agree  to  the  Master's  nomination. 

Grand  Master  Installed  by  Proxy. 

XXXVI.  But  if  the  Brother,  whom  the  present  Grand  Master  shall 
nominate  for  his  successor,  or  whom  the  majority  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
shall  happen  to  choose  by  ballot,  is,  by  sickness  or  other  necessary 
occasion,  absent  from  the  Grand  Feast,  he  cannot  be  proclaimed  the 
new  Grand  Master,  unless  the  old  Grand  Master,  or  some  of  the  Mas 
ters  and  Wardens  of  the  Grand  Lodge  can  vouch,  upon  the  honour  of 
a  Brother,  that  the  said  person,  so  nominated  or  chosen,  will  readily 
accept  of  the  said  office;  in  which  case  the  old  Grand  Master  shall 
act  as  proxy,  and  shall  nominate  the  Deputy  and  Wardens  in  his  name, 

9 


62  Ancient  Constitutions. 

and  in  his  name  also  receive  the  usual  honours,  homage,  and  congrat- 
ulation. 

Addresses. 

XXXVII.  Then  the  Grand  Master  shall  allow  any  Brother,  Fellow- 
Craft,  or  Apprentice  to  speak,  directing  his  discourse  to  his  Worship; 
or  to  make  any  motion  for  the  good  of  the  Fraternity,  which  shall  be 
either  immediately  considered  and  finished,  or  else  referred  to  the 
consideration  of  the  Grand  Lodge  at  their  next  communication,  stated 
or  occasional.     When  that  is  over, 

Address  by  Grand  Master  or  Deputy. 

XXXVIII.  The  Grand  Master  or  his  Deputy,  or  some  Brother  ap- 
pointed by  him,  shall  harangue  all  the  Brethren,  and  give  them  good 
advice :  and  lastly,  after  some  other  transactions,  that  cannot  be 
written  in  any  language,  the  Brethren  may  go  away  or  stay  longer,  as 
they  please. 

How  Regulations  may  be  Altered. 

XXXIX.  Every  annual  Grand  Lodge  has  an  inherent  power  and 
authority  to  make  new  regulations,  or  to  alter  these,  for  the  real 
benefit  of  this  ancient  Fraternity:  Provided  always,  That  the  old 
land-marks  be  carefully  preserved,  and  that  such  alterations  and  new 
regulations  be  proposed  and  agreed  at  the  third  quarterly  communi- 
cation preceding  the  annual  Grand  Feast;  and  that  they  be  offered 
also  to  the  perusal  of  all  the  Brethren  before  dinner,  in  writing,  even 
of  the  youngest  Apprentice ;  the  approbation  and  consent  of  the 
majority  of  all  the  Brethren  present  being  absolutely  necessary  to 
make  the  same  binding  and  obligatory ;  which  must,  after  dinner, 
and  after  the  new  Grand  Master  is  installed,  be  solemnly  desired ;  as 
it  was  desired  and  obtained  for  these  regulations,  when  proposed  by 
the  Grand  Lodge,  to  about  one  hundred  and  fifty  Brethren,  on  St. 
John  Baptist's  Day,  1721. 


POSTSCRIPT. 


Here  follows  the  manner  of  constituting  a  new  Lodge,  as  practised  by 
his  Grace  the  Duke  of  Wharton,  according  to  the  ancient  usages 
of  Masons. 

A  new  Lodge,  for  avoiding  many  irregularities,  should  he  solemnly 
constituted  by  the  Grand  Master,  with  his  Deputy  and  Wardens;  or 
in  the  Grand  Master's  absence,  the  Deputy  shall  act  for  his  Worship, 
and  shall  choose  si  me  Master  of  a  Lodge  to  assist  him;  or  in  case  the 
Deputy  is  absent,  the  Grand  Master  shall  call  forth  some  Master  of  a 
Lodge  to  act  as  Deputy  jjro  tempore. 

The  Candidates,  or  the  new  Master  and  Wardens,  being  yet  among 
the  Fellow  Craft,  the  Grand  Master  shall  ask  his  Deputy  if  he  has  ex- 
amined them,  and  finds  the  Candidate  Master  well  skilled  in  the  noble 
science  and  the  royal  art,  and  duly  instructed  in  our  mysteries,  &c. 

And  the  Deputy  answering  in  the  affirmative,  he  shall  (by  the  Grand 
Master's  order)  take  the  Candidate  from  among  his  Fellows,  and  pre- 
sent him  to  the  Grand  Master,  saying:  Right  Worshipful  Grand  Mas- 
ter, the  Brethren  here  desirtj  to  be  formed  into  a  new  Lodge;  and  I 
present  this  my  worthy  Brother  to  be  their  Master,  whom  I  know  to 
be  of  good  morals  and  great  skill,  true  and  trusty,  and  a  lover  of  the 
whole  Fraternity,  wheresoever  dispersed  over  the  face  of  the  earth. 

Then  the  Grand  Master,  placing  the  Candidate  on  his  left  hand, 
having  asked  and  obtained  the  unanimous  consent  of  all  the  Brethren, 
shall  say :  I  constitute  and  form  these  good  Brethren  into  a  new 
Lodge,  and  appoint  you  the  Master  of  it,  not  doubting  of  your  capac- 
ity and  care  to  presene  the  cement  of  the  Lodge,  &c,  with  some 
other  expressions  that  are  proper  and  usual  on  that  occasion,  but  not 
proper  to  be  written. 

Upon  this  the  Deputy  stall  rehearse  the  Charges  of  a  Master,  and 
the  Grand  Master  shall  ask  the  Candidate,  saying:  Do  you  submit  to 
these  Charges,  as  Masters  have  clone  in  all  ages  ?  And  the  Candidate 
signifying  his  cordial  submission  thereunto,  the  Grand  Master  shall, 
by  certain  significant  ceremonies  and  ancient  usages,  install  him,  and 
present  him  with  the  Constitution,  the  Lodge  Book,  and  the  instru- 


6Jf  Ancient  Constitutions. 

ments  of  his  office,  not  all  together,  but  one  after  another;  and  after 
each  of  them,  the  Grand  Master,  or  his  Deputy,  shall  rehearse  the 
short  and  pithy  Charge  that  is  suitable  to  the  thing  presented. 

After  this,  the  members  of  this  new  Lodge,  bowing  all  together  to 
the  Grand  Master,  shall  return  his  Worship  thanks,  and  immediately 
do  their  homage  to  their  new  Master,  aud  signify  their  promise  of 
subjection  and  obedience  to  him  by  the  usual  congratulation. 

The  Deputy  and  the  Grand  Wardens,  and  any  other  Brethren  pres- 
ent, that  are  not  members  of  this  new  Lodge,  shall  next  congratulate 
the  new  Master;  and  lie  shall  return  his  becoming  acknowledgements 
to  the  Grand  Master  first,  and  to  the  rest  in  their  order. 

Then  the  Grand  Master  desires  the  new  Master  to  enter  immedi- 
ately upon  the  exercise  of  his  office,  in  choosing  his  Wardens:  and 
the  new  Master  calling  forth  two  Fellow  Craft,  present  them  to  the 
Grand  Master  for  his  approbation,  and  to  the  new  Lodge  for  their 
consent.     And  that  being  granted, 

The  senior  or  junior  Grand  Warden,  or  some  Brother  for  him,  shall 
rehearse  the  Charges  of  Wardens;  and  the  Candidates  being  solemnly 
asked  by  the  new  Master,  shall  signify  their  submission  thereunto. 

Upon  which  the  new  Master,  presenting  them  with  the  instruments 
of  their  office,  shall,  in  due  form,  install  them  in  their  proper  places ; 
and  the  Brethren  of  that  new  Lodge  shall  signify  their  obedience  to 
the  new  Wardens  by  the  usual  congratulation. 

Aud  this  Lodge  being  thus  completely  constituted,  shall  be  regis- 
tered in  the  Grand  Master's  Book,  and  by  his  order  notified  to  the 
other  Lodges. 


APPROBATION. 


Whereas,  by  the  confusions  occasioned  in  the  Saxon,  Danish,  and 
Norman  wars,  the  records  of  Masons  have  been  much  vitiated,  the 
Free  Masons  of  England  twice  thought  it  necessary  to  correct  their 
Constitutions,  Charges,  and  Regulations;  first  in  the  reign  of  King 
Athelstan  the  Saxon,  and  long  after  in  the  reign  of  King  Edward  IV. 
the  Norman  :  and  whereas  the  old  Constitutions  in  England  have  been 
much  interpolated,  mangled  and  miserably  corrupted,  not  only  with 
false  spelling,  but  even  with  many  false  facts  and  gross  errors  in  his- 
tory and  chronology,  through  length  of  time,  and  the  ignorance  of 
transcribers,  in  the  dark  illiterate  ages,  before  the  revival  of  geome- 
try and  ancient  architecture,  to  the  great  offence  of  all  the  learned 
and  judicious  Brethren,  whereby  also  the  ignorant  have  been  de- 
ceived. 

And  our  late  worthy  Grand  Master,  his  Grace  the  Duke  of  Montagu, 
having  ordered  the  author  to  peruse,  correct,  and  digest,  into  a  new 
and  better  method,  the  History,  (  barges,  and  Regulations,  of  the  an- 
cient Fraternity ;  he  has  accordingly  examined  several  copies  from 
Italy  and  Scot  hind,  and  sundry  parts  of  England,  and  from  thence, 
(though  in  many  things  erroneous)  and  from  several  other  ancient 
records  of  Masons;  he  has  drawn  forth  the  above  written  new  Consti- 
tutions, with  the  Charges  and  General  Regulations.  And  the  author 
having  submitted  the  whole  to  the  perusal  and  corrections  of  the  late 
and  present  Deputy  Grand  Masters,  and  of  other  learned  Brethren; 
and  also  of  the  Masters  and  Wardens  of  particular  Lodges  at  their 
quarterly  communication:  he  did  regularly  deliver  them  to  the  late 
Grand  Master  himself  the  said  Duke  of  Montagu,  for  his  examina- 
tion, correction,  and  approbation;  and  his  Grace,  by  the  advice  of 
several  Brethren,  ordered  the  same  to  be  handsomely  printed  for  the 
use  of  the  Lodges,  though  they  were  not  quite  ready  for  the  press 
during  his  Mastership. 

Therefore  we,  the  present  Grand'  Master  of  the  Right  Worshipful 
and  most  ancient  Fraternity  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons,  the  Deputy 
Grand  Master,  the  Grand  Wardens,  the  Masters  and  Wardens  of  par- 
ticular Lodges  (with  the  consent  of  the  Brethren  and   Fellows  in  and 


66  Ancient  Constitutions. 

about  the  cities  of  London  and  Westminster)  having  also  perused  this 
performance,  do  join  our  laudable  predecessors  in  our  solemn  appro- 
bation thereof,  as  what  we  believe  will  fully  answer  the  end  proposed; 
all  the  valuable  things  of  the  old  records  being  retained,  the  errors  in 
history  and  chronology  corrected,  the  false  facts  and  the  improper 
words  omitted,  and  the  whole  digested  in  a  new  and  better  method. 

And -we  ordain,  that  these 'be  received  in  every  particular  Lodge 
under  our  cognizance,  as  the  only  Constitutions  of  Free  and  Accepted 
Masons  amongst  us,  to  be  read  at  the  making  of  new  Brethren,  or 
when  the  Master  shall  think  fit;  and  which  the  new  Brethren  should 
peruse  before  they  are  made. 

PHILIP  Duke  of  Wharton,  G.  M. 

J.  T.  Desagulters,  L.L.  D.  and  F.  R,  S. ;  D.  G.  M. 

Joshua  Timson        )    n       ^  ™r     ■> 
„,.,,.       tt      i  •        >    Grand  Wardens. 
William  Hawkins,  \ 


COD 


FOR   THE    GOVERNMENT   OF 


SUBORDINATE   LODGES 


UNDER    THE    JURISDICTION    OF    THE 


GRAND  LODGE  OF  NORTH  CAROLINA. 


BY-LAWS 


Lori^e,  .No- 


A     F     &    A,    M.. 


NORTH    CAROLINA. 


ARTICLE  I. 

Charter  and  Communication, 

Section  1-  The  Master  shall  have  charge  of  the  Charter,  and  it  shall 
he  in  the  Lodge,  whenever  opened. 

Sec.  2    The  regular  Communications  of  this  Lodge  shall  be  held  on 

the 


Sec.  3.  The  Lodge  shall  hold  no  (  ommunication  on  Sunday,  ex- 
cept on  Funeral  occasions. 

Sec  4.  The  Master,  or  in  his  absence,  the  Wardens  by  seniority, 
may  call  special  communications  of  the  Lodge. 


ARTICLE  II. 

Election  and  Appointment  of  Officers — Their  Duties. 

Section  1.  The  elective  officers  of  this  Lodge,  to-wit:  Master,  War* 
dens,  Treasurer,  and  Secretary,  shall  be  chosen  by  ballot  at  the  regu- 
lar communication  immediately  preceding  the  anniversary  of  St.  John 

the         f  the  Master  by  two-thirds, 

and  the  remaining  officers  by  a  majority,  of  the  members  present, 

10 


70  Uniform  Code  of  By-Laivs. 

Sec.  2.  All  the  officers  shall  be  ins' ailed  on  St.  John 
clay,  or  as  soon  thereafter  as  practicable. 

Sec.  8.  The  Master,  immediately  after  his  installation,  shall  ap- 
point the  Deacons,  Marshal,  Stewards  and  Tiler. 

Sec.  4.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Master,  on  the  decease  of  a  mem- 
ber or  sojourning  brother,  entitled  to  such  honors,  to  ascertain  if 
Masonic  honors  would  be  agreeable,  and  to  take  measures  accord- 
ingly. 

Sec.  5.  The  Master  shall  read,  or  cause  to  be  read,  in  open  Lodge, 
as  soon  after  they  may  be  received  as  practicable,  the  annual  proceed- 
ings of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

i  ec  6.  The  Treasurer  shall  not  pay  out  any  moneys,  except  upon 
the  warrant  of  the  Worshipful  Master,  properly  attested  by  the  Secre- 
tary; and  shall  furnish  the  i  o<!ge  with  an  annual  statement  of  his 
receipts  and   disbursements. 

Sec.  7.  The  Secretary  shall  transcribe  on  the  book  of  records,  the 
minutes  of  each  regular  and  special  communication  ;  shall  keep  a  book 
with  the  By-Laws  neatly  written  therein  for  the  signatures  of  mem- 
bers; shall  properly  endorse  and  file  all  papers  necessary  to  be  pre- 
served; shall  pay  over  to  the  Treasurer  all  moneys  received  by  him, 
on  or  before  the  clay  of  each  regular  communication,  shall  pay  out  no 
moneys  in  his  hands  by  virtue  of  his  office;  shall  receive  no  clue  bill 
or  other  evidence  of  indebtedness;  and  shall  have  his  books  in  the 
Lodge,  at  each  regular  communication,  with  every  entry  properly 
made  up  to  that  date. 

Sec  8  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Tiler  to  keep  the  furniture  clean, 
and  everything  in  order  for  each  communication  of  the  Lodge.  The 
implements,  jewels,  clothing,  and  other  property  of  the  Lodge,  with 
the  keys  of  the  several  apartments,  wardrobes,  etc.,  shall  lie  consid- 
ered in  his  custody,  and  he  shall,  for  the  time  being,  be  held  respon- 
sible for  their  safekeeping;  and  at  the  expiration  of  his  term  of  office, 
shall  deliver  over  the  same  to  his  successor;  he  shall  keep  a  visitor's 
register,  in  which  he  shall  require  each  visitor  to  register  his  name 
and  the  Lodge  of  which  he  is  a  member.  It  shall  also  be  his  duty  to 
deliver  to  the  brethren,  to  whom  they  are  addressed,  all  summons 
issued  by  the  Lodge,  and  to  make  due  return  of  such  direction,  or 
return  the  same  to  the  Secretary,  with  a  statement  in  writing,  setting 
forth  the  reasons  for  his  failure  to  do  so.  His  services  shall  be  re- 
warded as  the  Lodge  may,  from  time  to  time,  determine. 


Uniform  Code  of  By-Laws.  71 

ARTICLE  in. 

Committees. 

Section  1.  There  shall  be  three  standing  committees,  to-wit:  A 
Committee  of  Charity;  a  Committee  ot  Finance,  and  a  Committee  of 
Reference. 

Sec:  2  The  Worshipful  Master,  Senior  and  Junior  Wardens,  shall 
lie  a  Committee  on  Charity,  who  shall  attend  to  all  applications  for 
relief,  see  that  all  true,  worthy  brothers,  their  widows  and  orphans, 
in  sickness  or  distress,  are  aided  and  assisted,  and  report  their  action 
to  the   Lodge:     Provided,    when   they   may  deem  it   necessary,    they 

may  draw  from  the  funds  of  the  Lodge  to  the  amount  of 
dollars,  without  action  of  the  Lodge. 

Sec.  3.  The  Committee  of  Finance  shall  consist  of  three  members, 
to  be  appointed  by  the  Master,  annual'y,  at  the  regular  Communica- 
tion next  succeeding  the  install  ition  of  officers,  or  as  soon  thereafter 
as  practicable.  This  committee  shall,  from  time  to  time,  examine  the 
books  of  t he  ecrctary  and  Treasurer,  and  make  a  written  report 
thereon,  and  on  the  financial  affairs  of  the  Lodge,  at  thx'  end  of  each 
year,  or  ofterur,  if  required,  and  shall  carefully  investigate  every 
claim  a  ainst  the  Lodge  before  the  payment  of  the  same  shall  lie  or- 
dered by  the  Lodg  •. 

Sec  -'.  The  Committee  of  Reference  shall  consist  of  three  discreet 
and  judicious  members,  to  lie  appointed  by  the  Master,  wdio  shall  con- 
sider and  decide  all  matters  of  controversy,  or  dispute,  arising  at  any 
time  among  the  brethren,  which  may  be  referred  to  them.  Either 
party  dissatisfied  with  the  decision  of  the  committee,  may  appeal  to 
the  Lod«-e. 


ARTICLE  IV. 


Order  of  Business. 


Section  1.  No  business  shall  lie  transacted  in  any  other  than  a  Mas- 
ter's Lodge,  excepting  only  such  as  pertains  especially  to  the  work 
and  lectures  of  the  E.  A.,  or  F.  C.  degrees,  or  the  investigation  of 
charges  against  an  E.  A.,  or  F.  C. 

Sec  2.  No  business  shall  be  transacted  at  a  special  communication, 
other  than  that  for  which  it  was  called  ;  nor  shall  such  communica- 
tion receive  petitions,  or  ballot,  except  upon  the  advancement  of  can- 


72  Uniform  Code  of  By-Laws. 

didates;  nor  engage  in  any  other  business  affecting  the  general  inter- 
ests of  the  Craft. 

Sec.  3.  The  order  of  business  at  a  regular  communication  shall  be, 

1.  Reading  minutes  of  last  regular',  and   all  intervening  communi- 
cations. 

2.  Unfinished  business. 

3.  Reports  of  committees  on  petitions  for  initiation  and  membership. 

4.  Balloting. 

5.  Reports  of  standing  committees. 

6.  Reports  of  special  committees. 

7.  Reception  of  petitions. 

8.  Communications. 

9.  Motions  and   resolutions 

10.  Informal  communications  affecting  the  Craft. 

11.  Reading  and  approval  of  the  minutes. 

Sec.  4.   The  order  of  business  may  lie  changed    or   temporarily  dis- 
pensed with,  by  the  Master,  when  pressing  emergency  may  require  it. 


ARTICLE  V. 

Fees. 
Section  1.  The  fees  for  degrees  conferred    in  this  Lodge    shall  be 
dollars,  and   shall  invariably  accompany  the 
petition. 

Sec.  2    The  fees  for  membership  shall  be    dollars. 

Sec.  3.   The  dues  from  members  shall  be   dollars 

per  annum,  to  be  paid  quarterly. 


ARTICLE  VI. 

Petitions  for  Degrees. 

Section  1.   A  petition  for  the  degrees  of  masonry  shall  be  in  wri- 
ting, signed  by  the  applicant,  and  in  the  following  form : 

To  the  Master,   Wardens  and  Members  of Lodge, 

No.—,  A.  F.  &  A.  M.: 

The  petition  of  ,  respectfully  showeth  that  he  entertains  a 

favorable  opinion  of  your  ancient  institution,  and  desires  to  be  made 


Uniform  Code  of  By-Laws.  7-8 

ta  member  thereof.     If  this,  his  petition,  be  granted,   he  will  yield  a 
-cheerful  obedience  to  the  usages  and  customs  of  Masonry.     His  age 

is years;  bis  vocation  that  of  a ,  and  his  residence . 

Date,  .  [Signature,) ■ ■. 

Recommended  by 


Sec.  2.  A  petition  for  the  degrees  of  masonry  or  membership  shall 
be  recommended  by  two  or  more  members  of  the  Lodge,  and  shall  be 
placed  in  the  hands  of  the  Secretary,  with  the  lawful  fee. 

Sec.  3.  Every  petition  for  the  degrees  of  masonry  or  membership 
shall  be  referred  to  a  committee  of  three  members,  who  shall  dili- 
gently investigate  the  character,  standing,  and  qua'ifications  of  the 
applicant,  and  report  to  the  Lodge  at  the  first  regular  communication, 
thereafter,  if  practicable ;  and  no  petition  shall  otherwise  be  acted 
upon 

Sec,  4.  On  balloting  for  a  candidate,  one  black  ball  shall  reject 
without  a  question,  except  that  a  second  ballot  may  be  demanded  to 
be  satisfied  of  no  mistake. 

Sec.  5.  The  ballot  shall  be  inspected  by  none,  save  the  Master  and 
Wardens,  and  no  member  shall  make  known  what  manner  of  ballot 
he  cast. 

Sec.  6.  If  the  applicant  be  rejected,  the  fee  shall  be  returned  by 
the  Secretary.  If  he  be  accepted,  and  negligently  fail  to  offer  him- 
self for  initiation  within  six  months  after  his  acceptance,  or  to  make 
a  satifactory  excuse  for  such  neglect,  the  fee  shall  be  forfeited  to  the 
charity-fund,  and  the  whole  proceeding,  in  his  case,  shall  be  null  and 
void. 

Sec  7.  A  petition  once  rejected,  shall  not  again  be  acted  upon 
within  the  space  of  one  year. 

Sec.  8.  The  Lodge  shall  not  entertain  the  petition  for  degrees,  of  a 
stranger,  sojourner,  or  person  having  no  fixed,  or  permanent  place  of 
abode  or  residence ;  nor  of  one  whose  residence  is  nearer  to  some 
other  Lodge,  unless  by  written  sanction  of  such  Lodge,  or  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  State  from  which  he  hails;  nor  shall  the  Lodge  enter- 
tain a  petition  from  an  applicant,  who  has  not  resided  within  its 
jurisdiction  for  twelve  months  immediately  preceding  the  date  of  his 
petition. 

Sec.  9.  A  petition  shall  not  be  withdrawn  after  its  reference  to  a 
committee. 

Sec.  10.  Before  a  candidate  shall  be  prepared  for  initiation  he  shall 
answer  satisfactorily  the  following  interrogatories : 


74  Uniform  Code  of  By-Laws. 

1.  Do  you  declare  upon  your  honor,  before  these  witnesses,  that 
unbiased  by  frieuds  and  uninfluenced  by  mercenary  motives,  you 
freely  and  voluntarily  offer  yourself  a  candidate  for  the  mysteries  of 
Masonry  ? 

2.  Do  you  further  declare  upon  your  honor,  before  these  witnesses, 
that  you  are  prompted  to  solicit  the  privileges  of  Masonry  by  a  favor- 
able opinion  conceived  of  the  Institution,  a  desire  of  knowledge,  and 
a  sincere  wish  of  being  serviceable  to  your  fellow-creatures? 

3.  Do  you  further  declare  upon  your  honor,  before  these  witnesses, 
that  you  will  cheerfully  conform  to  all  the  ancient  established  usages 
and  customs  of  the  Fraternity  ? 

4.  Have  you  petitioned  any  other  Lodge  and  been  rejected  by  it  ? 


ARTICLE  VII. 


Qualifications. 


Section  1.  Every  applicant  for  the  degrees  of  masonry  must  be 
free-born;  and  no  individual  physically  so  deformed,  as  to  be  disa- 
bled from  honestly  acquiring  the  means  of  subsistence,  or  who  may  be 
incapacitated  for  becoming  a  useful  member,  shall   be  initiated. 


ARTICLE   VIII. 

Application  for  Membership. 

Section  1.  A  petition  for  membership  shall    be  in  writing,  signed 
by  the  applicant,  in  the  following  form ; 

To  the  Master,   Wardens  and  Brethren  of —  Lodge, 

No.  — ,  A.  F.  &  A.  M.: 

The  petition  of respectfully  showeth  that  he  was  lately  a 

member  of Lodge,  No.  ,  at ,  and   he  now  prays  to- 
be  admitted  a  member  of  your  Lodge.     His  age   is years ;  his 

vocation  that  of  a ,  and  his  residence,  . 

(Signed,) . 

Recommended  by 


Uniform  Code  of  By-Laws.  75 

Sec.  2.  A  petition  for  membership  shall  be  accompanied  by  the  ap 
plicanfs  (limit,  and  up  to.  and  inclusive  of,  the  ballot,  shall  be  subject 
to  the  same  rules  as  a  petitioner  for  the  degrees  of  masonry.  (See 
Article  VI.) 


ARTICLE  IX. 

Qualifications  for  Membership. 

Section  1.  None  but  worthy  Master  Masons,  against  whom  no  other 
Lodge  has  claims,  shall  be  admitted  to  membership. 

Sec.  2.  Any  resident  Master  Mason  of  good  standing  as  a  citizen, 
whose  Lodge  has  become  dormant,  may  be  admitted  to  membership, 
upon  such  terms  in  other  respects  as  other  masons. 

Sec.  3.  No  mason  shall  be  a  member,  until  he  shall  have  subscribed 
the  By-Laws. 


ARTICLE  X. 


Dimits. 


Section  1.  A  petition  for  a  dimit  shall  be  in  writing,  signed  by  the 
applicant,  and  in  the  following  form: 

To  the  Master,  Wardens  and  Brethren  of Lodge,  No.  . 

The  undersigned  respectfully  prays  to  withdraw  from  the  member- 
ship of  your  Lodge,  and  asks  for  a  certificate  to  that  effect.  His  mo- 
tive for  this  request  is . 

Sec.  2.  The  foregoing  petition  shall  be  accompanied  by  a  certificate 
from  the  Secretary  of  the  payment  of  all  dues  by  the  applicant. 


ARTICLE  XL 

Non-affiliated  Masons. 

Section  1.  A  non-affiliated  Mason  shall  not  be  permitted  to  visit 
the  Lodge,  or  to  join  in  procession;  nor  shall  he  be  entitled  to  relief, 
or  masonic  assistance,  or  burial. 


T6  Uniform  Code  of  By-Laws-* 

ARTICLE  XII. 

Recommendation  for  Dispensation-. 

Section  I.  No   petition  for  a  dispensation   for   organizing  a   new 
Lodge,  shall  be  recommended,  until  the    proposed    Master  and  War 
dens   have    shown    themselves,    upon    careful    examination,   in    opem 
Lodge,  to  be  well  skilled  in  the  ritual  and  laws  of  Masonry.. 


ARTICLE  XIIL 

Charity  Fund  and  Relief. 

Section  1.  Fees  for  initiation  and  advancement  shall  be  heTdsacredi 
for  charitable  or  educational  purposes,  unless  indispensable  necessity 
should  require  their  use  for  providing  suitable  accommodations,  or 
necessary  fixtures. 

Sec  2.  Applications  to  the  Lodge  for  chanty,,  shall,,  in  all  cases,  be 
made  through  a  member  of  the  Lodge,-  who  shall  previously  qualify 
himself  to  furnish  the  Lodge  with  necessary  information  of  the  stand- 
ing, character,  condition,  and  circumstances  of  the  applicant. 


ARTICLE  XIV, 

Certificate  of  Membership,  &e. 
Section  1.  Upon  the  death  of  any  member  of  this  Lodge  it  shall  be' 
the  duty  of  the  Secretary  to  furnish  the  widow  or  orphans  of  such 
deceased  member  a  certificate,  under  the  seal  of  the  Lodge,  of  his 
membership,  standing  and  death,  without  any  application  or  charge 
therefor. 


ARTICLE  XV, 

Offences. 

Section  1.  Offences  occurring  while  the  Lodge  is  at  labor,  shall  be 
reported  by  the  Senior  Warden ;  and  offences  occurring  while  the 
Lodge  is  at  refreshment,   shall  be  reported   by  the   Junior  Warden . 


Uniform  Code  of  By-Laws.  77 

Prodded,  That  these  officers  may  exercise  a  sound  discretion  in  re- 
porting trivial  offences,  which  may  be  more  prudently  made  the  sub- 
ject of  private  counsel  and   reprimand. 


ARTICLE   XVI. 


Miscellaneous. 


1.  The  Master  shall  put  all  questions  distinctly;  if  a  division  be 
called  for,  he  is  to  request  those  who  voted  in  the  affirmative  to  rise, 
and  count  them,  then  the  negative,  and  shall  declare  the  result. 

2.  All  committees  are  to  be  appointed  by  the  presiding  officer,  ex 
cept  as  herein  otherwise  provided. 

3  In  case  of  a  vote  on  any  question,  the  majority  of  those  present 
voting  for  or  against,  shall  be  necessary  to  a  decision,  except  as  other- 
wise provided  ;  in  case  of  a  tie  the  presiding  officer  shall  decide. 

4.  When  a  member  is  about  to  speak,  he  shall  rise  from  his  seat  and 
respectfully  address  the  Worshipful  Master. 

5.  If  any  member,  in  speaking  or  otherwis3,  shill  transgress  the 
rules  of  the  Lodge,  the  Master,  or  any  member  may  call  him  to  order ; 
he  shall  immediately  take  his  S3.it  an  1  the  member  calling  him  to 
order  shall  state  the  point  of  order.  The  Master  shall  decide  the 
question  of  order  without  debate,  except  that  the  member  called  to 
order  may  be  allowed  to  explain.  If  the  decision  be  in  favor  of  the 
member,  he  shall  be  at  liberty  to  proceed. 

G.  When  two  or  more  members  rise  at  once,  the  Master  shall  name 
the  one  entitled  to  the  floor. 

7.  No  visitor  shall  address  the  Lodge  without  leave  being  first  ob- 
tained, or  he  be  called  on  by  the  Master. 

8.  When  the  Master  is  stating  a  question  or  addressing  the  Lodge, 
or  whin  a  member  is  speaking,  no  person  shall  enter,  go  out  of,  or 
cross  the  room,  nor  be  permitted  to  enter  into  private  discourse. 

9.  No  motion  for  reconsideration  shall  be  made,  except  by  a  mem- 
ber voting  with  the  majority,  and  at  the  same  meeting  when  the 
question  shall  have  been  decided. 

10.  When  a  motion  is  made  and  seconded,  it  shall  be  stated  by  the 
Master,  and  if  in  writing,  read  by  the  Secretary  before  debate. 

11.  Every  motion  shall  be  reduced  to  writing  if  a  member  desire  it. 
In  filling  blanks,  the  largest  sum  or  number,  and  the  longest  time, 
shall  be  first  stated. 

11 


78  Uniform  Code  of  By-Louvs. 

12.  Any  motion  may  be  withdrawn  by  the  mover,  before    decision 
and  amendment. 

13.  No  new  motion  or  proposition  shall  be  admitted  while  a  ques- 
tion is  pending  before  the  Lodge. 

14.  No  member  shall  speak  more  than  twice  on  the  same  question, 
unless  he  obtain  the  permission  of  the  Master. 

15.  Every  member  appointed  on   a  committee  must    serve,  unless, 
for  reasons  given,  he  be  excused  by  the  Master. 

16.  No  member  shall  interrupt  another,  when  speaking,  except  by 
permission  of  the  Master,  and  the  member  then  speaking. 

17.  No  member  shall  engage  in  conversation,  during  the  conferring 
of  degrees,  except  it  be  necessary  to  facilitate  the  work. 


CONSTITUTION  AND  DEDICATION  OF  A  NEW  LODGE. 


CHAPTER  FIRST. 

Constitution  and  Dedication  of  a  New  Lodge. 

When  a  new  Lodge  receives  a  Dispensation,  the  Master  named  by 
the  Grand  Master  assumes  immediate  control,  designates  the  time  for 
the  convening  of  the  Lodge,  and  appoints  the  subordinate  officers. 
The  officers  of  a  Lodge  under  dispensation  are  not  to  be  installed. 
(See  Form  No.  1  for  Petition  for  a  Dispensation.) 

"When  a  Lodge  receives  a  Charter  from  the  Grand  Lodge  it  is  to  be 
constituted  according  to  the  ceremonies  prescribed  in  this  Chapter. 
The  ceremonies  should  be  performed  by  the  Grand  Master,  Deputy 
Grand  Master,  or  a  Past  Master  duly  authorized  by  the  Grand  Master. 
When  the  Grand  Master  officiates  the  Lodge  is  constituted  in  Ample 
Form;  the  Deputy  Grand  Master  in  Due  Form;  but  when  another 
does  so  it  is  in  Form.     (See  Form  No.  2,  for  Petition  for  a  Charter.) 


Ceremonies. 

On  the  day  and  hour  appointed,  the  Grand  Mister  and  his  officers 
meet  in  a  convenient  room  near  to  the  Lodge  to  be  constituted,  and 
open  in  the  third  degree.  After  the  officers  in  the  new  Lodge  are 
examined,  they  send  a  messenger  to  the  Grand  Master,  with  the  fol- 
lowing message,  viz. : 

Most  Worshipful: 

The  officers  and  brethren  of Lodge,  who  are  now  assembled 

at ,  have  instructed  me  to  inform  you,  that  the  Most  Worship  - 

ful  Grand  Lodge  was  pleased  to  grant  them  a  Charter,  authorizing 
them  to  form  and  open  a  Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  in  the 

town  of :  They  are  now  desirous  that  their  Lodge  should  be 

consecrated,  and  their  officers  installed  in  clue  and  ancient  form  ;  for 
which  purpose  they  are  now  met,  and  await  the  pleasure  of  the  Most 
Worshipful  Grand  Master. 

When  notice  is  given,  the  Grand  Lodge  walk  in  procession  to  the 
hall  of  the  new  Lodge.  When  the  Grand  Master  enters,  the  grand 
honors  are  given  by  the  new  Lodge ;  the  officers  of  which  resign  their 
seats  to  the  grand  officers,  and  take  their  several  stations  on  the  left. 

The  necessary  cautions  are  given ;  and  all,  excepting  Present  or  Past 
Masters  of  Lodges,  are  requested  to  retire  until  the   Master  of  the 


80  Dedication  of  a  JVeiu  Lodge. 

new  Lodge  is  inducted  into  the  Oriental  Chair  of  Solomon.  He  is  then 
bound  to  the  faithful  performance  of  his  trust,  and  invested  with  the 
characteristics  of  the  chair. 

Upf  n  due  notice,  the  Grand  Marshal  re- conducts  the  brethren  into 
the  hall;  and  all  take  their  places,  except  the  members  oi\the  new 
Lodge,  who  form  a  procession  on  one  side  of  the  hall.  As  they  ad- 
vance, the  Grand  Master  addmses  them: 

"Brethren,   belwJd  your  Master." 

They  make  the  proper  salutations  as  they  pass. 
A  grand  procession  is  then  formed,  in  the  following  order,  viz  : 
Tiler  with  a  drawn  Sword: 
Two  Stewards  with  white  Rods; 
Entered  Apprentices; 
Fellow  Crafts; 
Master  Masons ; 
Stewards; 
oa  Junior  Deacons ; 

i=  Senior  Deacons; 

CO 

eS  Secretaries; 

Treasurers ; 

Past  Wardens; 

Junior  Wardens; 

Senior  Wardens; 

Past  Masters; 

Mark  Masters; 

Royal  Arch  Masons ; 

Select  Masters; 

Knights  Templar; 

Masters  of  Lodges. 

The  New  Lodge. 

Tiler  with  a  drawn  Sword  ; 

Stewards  with  white  Rods; 

Entered  Apprentices ; 

Fellow  Crafts; 

Master  Masons ; 

Junior  and  Senior  Deacons ; 

Secretary  and  Treasurer ; 

Two  Brethren,  carrying  the  flooring,*  or  Lodge; 

Junior  and  Senior  Wardens; 

*  Carpet. 


Dedication  of  a  J\ew  Lodge-  81 

The  Holy  Writings,  carried  by  the  oldest  or  some 

suitable  member,  not  in  office; 

The  Worshipful  Master.; 

Music ; 

The  Grand  Lodge. 

Grand  Tiler  with  drawn  Sword; 

Grand  Stewards  with  white  Rods; 

A  Brother  carrying  a  Golden  Vessel  of  Corn;  * 

Two  Brethren,  tarrying  the  Silver  Vessels,  one  of 

Wine,  the  other  of  Oil; 

Grand  Secretaries; 

Grand  Treasurers; 

A  burning  Taper,  borne  by  a  Past  Master; 

A  Past  Master  bearing  the  Holy  Writings,  Square  and  Compasses, 

supported  by  two  Stewards  with  white  Rods; 

Two  burning  Tapers,  borne  by  two  Past  Masters; 

The  Tuscan  and  Composite  Orders; 

The  Doric,  Ionic,  and  Corinthian  Orders; 

Past  Grand  Wardens; 

S  Past  Deputy  Grand  Masters; 

%  Past  Grand  Masters; 

5  The  Globes; 

Clergy  and  Orator; 
R.  W.  Junior  and  Senior  Grand  Wardens; 
R.  W.  Deputy  Grand  Master; 
The  Master  of  the  oldest  Lodge,  carrying  the  Book  of  Constitutions; 

The  M.  W.  Grand  Master ; 

The  Grand  Deacons,  on  a  line  seven  feet  apart,  on  the  right   and  left 

of  the  Grand  Master,  with  black  Rods ; 

Grand  Sword  Bearer,  with  a  drawn  Sword ; 

TwTo  Stewards  with  white  Rods. 

The  Marshals  conduct  the  procession  to  the  church,  or  house,  where 
the  services  are  to  be  performed.  When  the  front  of  the  procession 
arrives  at  the  door  they  halt,  open  to  the  right  and  left,  and  face  in- 
ward, while  the  Grand  Master  and  others,  in  succession,  pass  through 
and  enter  the  house. 

A  platform  is  erected  in  front  of  the  pulpit,  and  provided  with 
seats  for  the  accommodation  of  the  Grand  Officers. 

The  Holy  Bible,  Square  and  Compasses,  and  Book  of  Constitutions, 
are  placed  upon  a  table  in  front  of  the  Grand  Master :  the  flooring  is 
then  spread  in  the  centre,    upon    the  platform,  covered  with  wdiite 

*  Wheat. 


8@  Dedication  of  a  JVeur  Lodge. 

satin  or  linen,  and  encompassed  by  the  three  tapers,  and  the  vessels 
of  coj'n,  wine  and  oil. 

Services. 

1.  A  piece  of  Music. 

2.  Prayer. 

3.  An  Oration. 

4.  A  piece  of  Music. 

5.  The  Grand  Marshal  forms  the  officers  and  members  of  the  new 
Lodge  in  front  of  the  Grand  Master.  The  Deputy  Grand  Master  ad- 
dresses the  Grand  Master  as  follows: 

Most  Worshipful  : 

A  number  of  brethren,  duly  instructed  in  the  mysteries  of  Masonry, 
having  assembled  together  at  stated  periods,  by  virtue  of  a  dispensa- 
tion granted  to  them  for  that  purpose,  do  now  desire  to  be  constituted 
into  a  regular  lodge,  agreeably  to  the  ancient  usages  and  customs  of 
the  fraternity. 

The  charter  and  records  are  presented  to  the  Grand  Master,  who 
examines  the  records,  and,  if  found  correct,  proclaims: 

The  records  appear  to  be  correct,  and  are  approved.  Upon  due 
deliberation,  the  Grand  Lodge  have  granted  the  brethren  of  this  new 
Lodge  a  charter,  establishing  and  confirming  them  in  the  rights  and 
privileges  of  a  regular  constituted  Lodge ;  which  the  Grand  Secretary 
will  now  read. 

After  the  charter  is  read,  the  Grand  Master  says, 

"We  shall  now  proceed,  according  to  ancient  usage,  to  constitute 
these  brethren  into  a  regular  Lodge. 

Whereupon  the  several  officers  of  the  new  Lodge  deliver  up  their 
jewels  and  badges  to  their  Master,  who  presents  them,  with  his  own, 
to  the  Deputy  Grand  Master ;  and  he  to  the  Grand  Master. 

The  Deputy  Grand  Master  presents  the  Master  Elect  to  the  Grand 
Master,  saying, 

Most  Worshipful  : 

I  present  you  Brother ,  whom  the  members  of  the  Lodge, 

now  to  be  constituted,  have  chosen  for  their  Master. 

The  Grand  Master  asks  them  if  they  remain  satisfied  with  their 
choice.      [They  ooio  in  tol'en  of  assent.  ] 


Dedication  of  a  New  Lodge.  83 

The  Master  elect  then  presents,  severally,  his  Wardens  and  other 
officers,  naming  them  and  their  respective  offices  The  Grand  Master 
asks  the  brethren  if  they  remain  satisfied  with  each  and  all  of  them. 
[They  bow  as  hefo7'e.] 

The  officers  and  members  of  the  new  Lodge  form  in  front  of  the 
Grand  Master;  and  the  ceremony  of  Consecration  commences  with 
solemn  music. 

6.   Ceremony  of  Consecration. 

The  Grand  Master,  attended  by  the  Grand  Officers  and  the  Grand 
Chaplain,  form  themselves  in  order  around  the  Lodge — all  devoutly 
kneeling. 

7.  A  piece  of  solemn  music  is  performed  while  the  Lodge  is  un- 
covered. 

After  which,  the  first  clause  of  the  Consecration  Prayer  is  repeated, 
which  is  as  follows: 

"  Great  Architect  of  the  universe!  Maker  and  Ruler  of  all  worlds! 
deign,  from  thy  celestial  temple,  from  realms  of  light  and  glory,  to 
bless  us  in  all  the  purposes  of  our  present  assembly!  We  humbly  in- 
voke thee  to  give  us  at  this,  and  at  all  times,  wisdom  in  all  our  doings, 
strength  of  mind  in  all  our  difficulties,  and  the  beauty  of  harmony  in 
all  our  communications!  Permit  us,  0  thou  Author  of  light  and  life, 
great  Source  of  love  and  happiness,  to  erect  this  Lodge,  and  now 
solemly  to  consecrate  it  to  the  honor  of  thy  glory! 

"Glory  he  to  God  on  high." 

[Response  by  the  brethren.] 

"  As  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be,  world 
without  end.     Amen." 

The  Deputy  Grand  Master  takes  the  Golden  Vessel  of  Corn,  and  the 
Senior  and  Junior  Grand  Wardens  take  the  Silver  Vessels  of  Wine 
and  Oil,  and  sprinkle  the  elements  of  consecration  upon  the  Lodge. 

[The  Grand  Chaplain  then  continues:] 

•'Grant,  0  Lord  our  God,  that  those  who  are  now  about  to  be  in- 
vested with  the  government  of  this  Lodge,  may  be  endued  with  wis- 
dom to  instruct  their  brethren  in  all  their  duties.  May  brotherly  love, 
relief ,  and  truth,  always  prevail  among  the  members  of  this  Lodge; 
and  may  this  bond  of  union  continue  to  strengthen  the  Lodges 
throughout  the  world ! 

"  Bless  all  our  brethren,  wherever  dispersed;  and  grant  speedy  re- 
lief to  all  who  are  either  oppressed  or  distressed. 

"  We  affectionately  commend  to  thee,  all  the  members  of  thy  whole 


84  Dedication  of  a  J\rew  Lodge. 

family.  May  they  increase  in  grace,  in  the  knowledge  of  thee,  and 
in  love  of  each  other. 

"Finally:  may  we  finish  all  our  work  here  below,  with  thy  appro- 
bation; and  then  have  our  transition  from  this  earthly  abode  to  thy 
heavenly  temple  abover  there  to  enjoy  lightr  glory  and  bliss,,  ineffable 
and  eternal! 

' '  Glory  be  to  God  on  high. rT 

[Response  by  the  brethren,} 

"As  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be.  So  mote 
it  be.     Amen." 

8.  A  piece  of  solemn  music  is  performed  while  the  Lodge  is  covered. 

9.  The  Grand  Chaplain  then  dedicates  the  Lodge  in  the  following 
terms. 

"  To  the  memory  of  the  HOLY  STS.  JOHN,  we  dedicate  this  Lodge . 
May  every  brother  revere  their  character,  and  imitate  their  virtues. 
"  Glory  be  to  God  on  high." 

[Response.] 

"  As  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall  be,  world  with- 
out end.      "So  mote  it  be.     Amen." 

10.  A  piece  of  music  is  performed,  while  the  brethren  of  the  new 
Lodge  advance  in  procession  to  salute  the  Grand  Lodge,  with  their 
hands  crossed  upon  their  breasts,  and  bowing  as  they  pass.  They 
then  take  their  places  as  they  were. 

11.  The  Grand  Master  then  rises,  and  constitutes  the  new  Lodge  in 
the  form  following: 

"In  the  name  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge,  I  now  consti- 
tute and  form  you,  my  beloved  brethren,  into  a  regular  Lodge  of 
Free  aud  Accepted  Masons.  From  henceforth  I  empower  you  to  meet 
as  a  regular  Lodge,  constituted  in  conformity  to  the  rites  of  our  order, 
and  the  charges  of  our  ancient  and  honorable  fraternity; — and  may 
the  Supreme  Architect  of  the  universe  prosper,  direct  and  counsel 
you,  in  all  your  doings. 

[Response.] 

"  So  mote  it  be.     Amen." 


Installation  of  Officers.  85 

After  the  dedication  of  a  new  Lodge,  the  officers  are  to  be  installed, 
a  brother  having  been  appointed  to  act  as  Marshal  or  Conductor  of 
Ceremonies,  whose  duty  it  is  to  present  each  of  the  officers  according 
to  rank,  to  the  installing  officer,  in  front  of  th«  Altar,  for  installation. 
The  following  ceremony  is  designed  to  be  used  on  such  occasions  or 
those  of  installation  after  the  annual  election  of  officers. 

Ceremony  of  Installation. 

The  installing  officer  addresses  the  Master  eleet  (or  designated  in 
the  charter)  as  follows: 

Brother  : 

Previous  to  your  investiture,  it  is  necessary  that  you  should  signify 
your  assent  to  those  ancient  charges  and  regulations,  which  point  out 
the  duty  of  a  Master  of  a  Lodge. 

I.  You  agree  to  be  a  good  man  and  true,  and  strictly  to  obey  the 
moral  law. 

II.  You  agree  to  be  a  peaceable  subject,  and  cheerfully  to  conform 
to  the  laws  of  the  country  in  which  you  reside. 

III.  You  promise  not  to  be  concerned  in  plots  and  conspiracies 
against  government;  but  patiently  to  submit  to  the  decisions  of  the 
supreme  legislature. 

IV.  You  agree  to  pay  a  proper  respect  to  the  civil  magistrates,  to 
work  diligently,  live  creditably,  and  act  honorably  by  all  men. 

V.  Yon  agree  to  hold  in  veneration,  the  original  rules  and  patrons 
of  the  order  of  masonry,  and  their  regular  successors,  supreme  and 
subordinate,  according  to  their  stations,  and  to  submit  to  the  awards 
and  resolutions  of  your  brethren,  when  convened,  in  every  case  con- 
sistent with  the  constitutions  of  the  order. 

VI.  You  agree  to  avoid  private  piques  and  quarrels,  and  to  guard 
against  intemperance  and  excess. 

VII.  You  agree  to  be  cautious  in  carriage  and  behavior,  courteous 
to  your  brethren,  and  faithful  to  your  Lodge. 

VIII.  You  promise  to  respect  genuine  brethren,  and  to  discounte- 
nance impostors,  and  all  dissenters  from  the  original  plan  of  masonry. 

IX.  You  agree  to  promote  the  general  good  of  society,  to  cultivate 
the  social  virtues,  and  to  propagate  the  knowledge  of  the  art. 

X.  You  promise  to  pay  homage  to  the  Grand  Master  for  the  time 
being,  and  to  his  officers  when  duly  installed ;  and  strictly  to  conform 
to  every  edict  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  or  general  assembly  of  masons, 
that  is  not  subversive  of  the  principles  and  groundwork  of  masonry. 

XL  You    admit  that  it  is  not  in  the  power  of  any  men,  or  body  of 
men,  to  make  innovations  in  the  body  of  masonry. 
XII.  You  promise  a  regular  attendance  on  the  committees  and  com- 

12 


86  Installation  of  Officers. 

munications  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  on  receiving  proper  notice,  and  to 
pay  attention  to  all  the  duties  of  masonry,  on  convenient  occasions. 

XIII.  You  admit  that  no  new  Lodge  shall  be  formed  without  per- 
mission of  the  Grand  Lodge:  and  that  no  countenance  he  given  to  an 
irregular  Lodge,  or  to  any  person  clandestinely  initiated  therein,  being 
contrary  to  the  ancient  charges  of  the  order. 

XIV.  You  admit  that  no  person  can  be  regularly  made  a  mason  in, 
or  admitted  a  member  of,  any  regular  Lodge,  without  previous  notice, 
and  due  inquiry  into  his  character. 

XV.  You  agree  that  no  visitors  shall  be  received  into  your  Lodge, 
without  due  examination,  and  producing  proper  vouchers  of  their 
having  been  initiated  into  a  regular  Lodge. 

These  are  the  regulations  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons. 
The  ju'esiding  officer  then  addresses  the  Master  as  follows: 

Do  you  submit  to  these  charges,  and  promise  to  support  these  regu- 
lations, as  Masters  have  done  in  all  ages  before  you? 

The  Master  is  to  answer,  I  do. 

The  presiding  officer  then  addresses  him: 

Brother  A.  B. : 

In  consequence  of  your  cheerful  conformity  to  the  charges  and  reg- 
ulations of  the  order,  you  are  now  to  be  installed  Master  of  thio  * 
Lodge,  in  full  confidence  of  your  care,  skill,  and  capacity  to  govern 
the  same. 

[The  new  Master  is  then  regularly  invested  with  the  insignia  of  his 
office,  and  the  furniture  and  implements  of  his  Lodge.] 

*  If  this  Lodge  is  installed  for  the  first  time,  it  is  called  This  neiv  Lodge." 

The  various  implements  of  the  profession  are  emblematical  of  our 
conduct  in  life,  and  upon  this  occasion  are  carefully  enumerated. 

The  Holy  Writings,  that  great  light  in  masonry,  will  guide  you  to 
all  truth :  it  will  direct  your  path  to  the  temple  of  happiness,  and 
point  out  to  you  the  whole  duty  of  man. 

The  Square  teaches  us  to  regulate  our  actions  by  rule  and  line,  and 
harmonize  our  conduct  by  the  principles  of  morality  and  virtue. 

The  GomjMsses  teach  us  to  limit  our  desires  in  every  station ;  that, 
rising  to  eminence  by  merit,  we  may  live  respected,  and  die  regretted. 

The  Rule  directs  that  we  should  punctually  observe  our  duty;  press 


Installation  of  Officers.  87 

forwar  1  in  the  path  of  virtue,  an  1.  neither  inclining  to  the  right  nor 
to  the  left,  in  all  our  actions  have  eternity  in  view. 

The  Line  teaches  the  criterion  (Jf  moral  rectitude,  to  avoid  dissimu- 
lation in  conversation  and  action,  and  to  direct  our  steps  to  the  path 
which  leads  to  a  glorious  immortality. 

The  Boole  of  Constitutions,  you  are  to  search  at  all  times.  Cause  it 
to  be  read  in  your  Lodge,  that  none  may  pretend  ignorance  of  the 
excellent  precepts  it  enjoins. 

You  will  also  receive  in  charge  the  By-Laws  of  your  Lodge,  which 
you  are  to  see  carefully  and  punctually  executed. 

Charge  upon  the  Installation  of  the  Master  of  a  Lodge. 

Worshipful  Master: 

Being  appointed  Master  of  this  Lodge,  you  cannot  be  insensible  of 
the  obligations  which  devolve  on  you,  as  their  head;  nor  of  your 
responsibility  for  the  faithful  discharge  of  the  important  duties  an- 
nexed to  your  appointment. 

The  honor,  reputation,  and  usefulness  of  your  Lodge,  will  materi- 
ally depend  on  the  skill  and  assiduity  with  which  you  manage  its  con- 
cerns; while  the  happiness  of  its  members  will  be  generally  promoted, 
in  proportion  to  the  zeal  and  ability  with  which  you  propagate  the 
genuine  principles  of  our  institution. 

For  a  pattern  of  imitation,  consider  the  great  luminary  of  nature, 
which,  rising  in  the  East,  regularly  diffuses  light  and  lustre  to  all 
within  its  circle.  In  like  manner,  it  is  your  province  to  spread  and 
communicate  light  aud  instruction  to  the  brethren  of  your  Lodge. 
Forcibly  impress  upon  them  the  dignity  and  high  importance  of  ma- 
sonry, and  seriously  admonish  them  never  to  disgrace  it.  Charge 
them  to  practice  out  of  the  Lodge,  those  duties  which  are  taught  in 
it;  and  by  amiable,  discreet,  and  virtuous  conduct,  to  convince  man- 
kind of  the  goodness  of  the  institution ;  so  that,  when  any  one  is  said 
to  be  a  member  of  it,  the  world  may  know  that  he  is  one  to  whom 
the  burthened  heart  may  pour  out  its  sorrows;  to  whom  distress  may 
prefer  its  suit ;  whose  hand  is  guided  by  justice,  and  his  heart  ex- 
panded by  benevolence.  In  short,  by  a  diligent  observance  of  the 
by-laws  of  your  Lodge,  the  constitutions  of  masonry,  and,  above  all, 
the  Holy  Scriptures,  which  are  given  as  a  rule  and  guide  to  your  faith, 
you  will  be  enabled  to  acquit  yourself  with  honor  and  reputation, 
and  lay  up  a  crown  of  rejoicing,  which  shall  continue  when  time  shall 
be  no  more. 


88  Installation  of  Officers. 

The  subordinate  officers  are  then  severally  invested  by  the  presiding 
officer,  who  delivers  each  of  them  a  short  Charge,  as  follows,  viz.  : 

The  Senior  Warden. 

Brother  C.  D. : 

Yon  are  appointed  Senior  Warden  of  this  Lodge,  and  are  now  in- 
vested with  the  ensign  of  your  office. 

The  Level  demonstrates  that  we  are  descended  from  the  same  stock, 
partake  of  the  same  nature,  and  share  the  same  hope;  and  though 
distinctions  among  men  are  necessary  to  preserve  subordination,  yet 
no  eminence  of  station  should  make  us  forget  that  we  are  brethren; 
for  he  who  is  placed  on  the  lowest  spoke  of  fortune's  wheel,  may  be 
entitled  to  our  regard  ;  because  a  time  will  come,  and  the  wisest 
knows  not  how  soon,  when  all  distinction,  but  that  of  goodness,  shall 
cease;  and  death,  the  grand  leveller  of  human  greatness,  reduce  us 
to  the  same  state. 

Your  regular  attendance  on  our  stated  meetings,  is  essentially  nec- 
essary. In  the  absence  of  the  Master,  you  are  to  govern  this  Lodge; 
in  his  presence,  you  are  to  assist  him  in  the  government  of  it.  I 
firmly  rely  on  your  knowledge  of  masonry,  and  attachment  to  the 
Lodge,  for  the  faithful  discharge  of  the  duties  of  this  important 
trust. — Look  xcellto  the  Went  ! 


The  Junior  Warden. 


Brother  E.  F. 


You  are  appointed  Junior  Warden  of  this  Lodge,  and  are  now  in- 
vested with  the  badge  of  your  office. 

The  Plumb  admonishes  us  to  walk  uprightly  in  our  several  stations; 
to  hold  the  scales  of  justice  in  equal  poise;  to  observe  the  just  me- 
dium between  intemperance  and  pleasure:  and  to  make  our  passions 
and  prejudices  coincide  with  the  line  of  our  duty. 

To  you  is  committed  the  superintendence  of  the  craft,  during  the 
hours  of  refreshment:  it  is  therefore  indispensably  necessary,  that  you 
should  not  only  be  temperate  and  discreet,  in  the  indulgence  of  your 
own  inclinations,  but  carefully  observe  that  none  of  the  craft  be  suf- 
fered to  convert  the  purposes  of  refreshment  into  intemperance  and 
excess. 

Your  regular  and  punctual  attendance  is  particularly  requested  ; 
and  I  have  no  doubt  that  you  will  faithfully  execute  the  duty  which 
you  owe  to  your  present  appointment. — Look  well  to  the  South  ! 


Installation  of  Officers.  89 

The  Treasurer. 
Brother  G.  H. : 

You  are  appointed  Treasurer  of  this  Lodge.  It  is  your  duty  to  re- 
ceive all  moneys  from  the  hands  of  the  Secretary,  make  due  entries  of 
•the  same,  and  pay  them  out  by  order  of  the  Worshipful  Master  and 
the  consent  of  the  Lodge. 

I  trust  your  regard  for  the  fraternity  will  prompt  you  to  the  faith- 
ful discharge  of  tie  duties  of  your  office. 

The  Secretary. 
Brother  J.  K. : 

You  axe  appointed  Secretary  of  this  Lodge.  It  is  your  duty  to  ob- 
serve all  the  proceedings  of  the  Lodge;  make  a  fair  record  of  all 
things  proper  to  be  written;  to  receive  all  moneys  due  the  Lodge, 
and  pay  them  over  to  the  Treasurer,  and  take  his  receipt  for  the 
same. 

Your  good  inclination  to  masonry  and  this  Lodge,  I  hope,  will  in- 
duce you  to  discharge  your  office  with  fidelity;  and  by  so  doing,  you 
will  merit  the  esteem  and  applause  of  your  brethren. 

Senior  and  Junior    Deacons. 

Brothers  L.  M.  and  N.  O. ; 

You  are  appointed  Deacons  of  this  Lodge.  To  you,  with  such  as- 
sistance as  may  be  necessary,  is  entrusted  the  examination  of  visitors. 
— It  is  also  your  province  to  attend  on  the  Master  and  "Wardens,  and 
to  act  as  their  proxies  in  the  active  duties  of  the  Lodge;  such  as  in 
the  reception  of  candidates  into  the  different  degrees  of  masonry,  and 
in  the  immediate  practice  of  our  rights.  The  Square  and  Compasses, 
as  badges  of  your  office,  I  trust  to  your  care,  not  doubting  your  vigi- 
lance and  attention. 

The  Stewards. 
Brothers  P.  Q.  and  R.  S. : 

You  are  appointed  Stewards  of  this  Lodge.  The  duties  of  your 
office  are,  to  assist  in  the  collection  of  dues  and  subscriptions;  to  keep 
an  account  of  the  Lodge  expenses;  to  see  that  the  tables  are  properly 
furnished  at  refreshment,  and  that  every  brother  is  suitably  provided 
for;  and  generally  to  assist  the  Deacons  and  other  officers  in  perform- 
ing their  duties. 

Your  regular  and  early  attendance  will  afford  the  best  proof  of  your 
zeal  and  attachment  to  the  Lodge. 


90  Installation  of  Officers. 

The   Tiler. 
Brother : 

You  are  appointed  Tiler  of  this  Lodge;  and  I  invest  you'  with  the 
implement  of  your  office.  As  the  sword  is  placed  in  the  hands  of  the- 
Tiler,  to  enable  him  effectually  to  guard  against  the  approach  of  cow- 
ans and  evesdroppers.  and  suffer  none  to  pass  or  repass  but  such  as  are 
duly  qualified;  so  it  should  morally  serve  as  a  constant  admonition  to> 
us,  to  set  a  guard  at  the  entrance  of  our  thoughts;  to  place  a  watch 
at  the  door  of  our  lips;  to  post  a  sentinel  at  the  avenue  of  our  actions  :; 
thereby  excluding  every  unqualified  and  unworthy  thought,  word,, 
and  deed  •  and  preserving  consciences  void  of  offence  towards  God 
and  towards  man. 

Your  early  and  punctual  attendance  will  afford  the  best  proof  of 
your  zeal  for  the  institution. 

Charge  to  the  Brethren  of  the  Lodge. 

Such  is  the  nature  of  our  Constitution,  that  as  some  must  of  neces- 
sity rule  and  teach,  so  others  must  of  course  learn  to  submit  and  obey. 
Humility  in  both  is  an  essential  duty.  The  officers  who  are  appointed 
to  govern  your  Lodge,  are  sufficiently  conversant  with  the  rules  of 
propriety,  and  the  laws  of  the  institution,  to  avoid  exceeding  the 
powers  with  which  they  are  entrusted ;  and  you  are  of  too  generous 
dispositions  to  envy  their  preferment.  I  therefore  trust  that  you  will 
have  but  one  aim,  to  please  each  other,  and  unite  in  the  grand  design 
of  being  happy,  and  communicating  happiness. 

Finally,  my  brethren,  as  this  association  has  been  formed  and  per- 
fected with  so  much  unauimity  and  concord,  in  wdiich  we  greatly  re- 
joice, so  may  it  long  continue.  May  you  long  enjoy  every  satisfac- 
tion and  delight  which  disinterested  friendship  can  afford.  May 
kindness  and  brotherly  affection  distinguish  your  conduct,  as  men, 
and  as  masons.  Within  your  peaceful  walls,  may  your  children's 
children  celebrate  with  joy  and  gratitude,  the  transactions  of  this 
auspicious  solemnity.  And  may  the  tenets  of  our  profession  be  trans- 
mitted through  your  Lodge,  pure  and  unimpaired,  from  generation 
to  generation. 

12.  The  Grand  Marshal  then  proclaims  the  New  Lodge  in  the  fol- 
lowing manner,  viz.  : 

In  the  name  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of 
North   Carolina,    I   proclaim   this   new  Lodge    by  the  name  of 


Installation  of  Officers.  91 

Xodge,  No.  — ,  to  be  legally  constituted,  cousecrated,  and  the  officers 
thereof  duly  installed, 

13.  A  piece  of  Music  is  then  performed. 

14.  Benediction. 

The  procession  is  then  formed,  and  returns  to  the  hall  whence  it  set 
•out. 

The  Worshipful  Master  having  been  previously  inducted  into  the 
•Oriental  Chair  of  Solomon,  all  but  master  masons  are  caused  to  retire. 

A  procession  is  then  formed,  and  passes  three  times  around  the  hall: 
.■and  upon  passing  the  Master,  pays  him  due  homage  by  the  usual 
liouors,  in  the  different  degrees. 

While  the  procession  is  passing  around,  the  following  Ode  is  sung-; 

HAIL  MASONRY  divine  ! 
Glory  of  ages  shine; 

Long  may'st  thou  reign  ! 
Where'er  thy  lodges  stand, 
May  they  have  great  command 
And  always  grace  the  land, 

Thou  Art  divine; 

Great  fabrics  still  arise, 
And  grace  the  azure  skies; 
!  Great  are  thy  schemes; 

Thy  noble  orders  are 
Matchless  beyond  compare; 
.No  art  with  thee  can  share, 

Thou  Art  divine.  ] 

Hiram,  the  architect, 
Did  all  the  craft  direct 

Howr  they  should  build  : 
Sol'mon,  great  Israel's  king,     ]         a: 
Did  mighty  blessings  bring.       I    p   S 
And  left  us  room  to  sing,  [    2    o 

Hail,  royal  Art !  J   °  J 


9£  Dedication  of  Masoiiic  Halls. 

CHAPTER  SECOND. 

Dedication  of  Masonic  Halls. 

On  the  clay  appointed  for  the  celebration  of  the  ceremony  of  dedi- 
cation, the  Grand  Master  and  his  officers,  accompanied  by  the  mem- 
bers of  the  Grand  Lodge,  meet  in  a  room  near  the  place  where  the 
ceremony  is  to  be  performed,  and  the  Grand  Lodge  is  opened  in  ample 
form  in  the  third  degree  of  Masonry.  The  Master  of  the  Lodge  to 
which  the  hall  to  be  dedicated  belongs,  being  present,  rises  and  ad- 
dresses the  Grand  Master  as  follows: 

Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master  : 

The  brethren  of Lodge,  No.  — ,  being  animated  with  a  de- 
sire to  promote  the  honor  and  interest  of  the  Craft,  have  erected  a 
Masonic  Hall  for  their  convenience  and  accommodation.  They  are- 
desirous  that  the  same  should  be  examined  by  the  Most  Worshipful; 
Grand  Lodge,  and  if  it  should  meet  their  approbation,  that  it  should 
be  solemnly  dedicated  to  Masonic  purposes,  agreeable  to  ancient  form, 
and  usage. 

The  Grand  Master  then  directs  the  Grand  Secretary  to  read  the  fol- 
lowing order  of  procession,  which  is  delivered  to  the  Grand  Marshal, 
and  a  general  charge  respecting  behavior  is  given* 

Order  of  Procession. f 

Tiler  of   oldest  Lodge,  with  drawn  Sword. 

Stewards  of   oldest  Lodge,  with  white  Rods, 

Entered  Apprentices. 

Fellow   Crafts, 

Master  Masons. 

Stewards,   with  Jewels. 

Junior  Deacons,  with  Jewels. 

Senior  Deacons,  with  Jewels. 

Secretaries,  with  Jewels, 

Treasurers,  with  Jewels. 

Junior  Wardens,  with  Jewels. 

Senior  Wardens,  with  Jewels. 

Past  Masters,  with  Jewels. 

Master,  with  Jewels. 

Music. 

*  From  this  point  the  ceremonies  may  be  of  a  public  nature. 

t  This  order  may  be  changed  so  as  to  arrange  each  Lodge  according  to 
age,  separately  in  the  procession. 


'Dedication  of  Masonic  Halls.  93 

Grand  Lodge  in  the  following  order  : 

Grand  Tiler  with  drawn  Sword; 

Grand  Stewards  with  White  Rods; 

Grand  Secretary  and  Grand  Treasurer; 

A  Past  Master,  bearing-  the  Holy  Writings,  Square  and  Compasses; 

Chaplain  and  Orator; 

Past  Grand  Wardens; 

Past  Deputy  Grand  Masters; 

Past  Grand   Masters; 

Junior  Grand  Warden,  carrying  a  Silver  Vessel  with  Corn; 

Senior  Grand  Warden,  carrying  a  Silver  Vessel  with  Wine; 

Deputy  Grand  Master,  carrying  a  Golden  Vessel  with  Oil; 

Master  of  the  oldest  Lodge  carrying  the  Book  of  Constitutions; 

Grand  Master,  supported  l>y  two  Deacons  with  Rods; 

Grand  Sword  Bearer,  with  drawn  Swords 

Two  Stewards  with  Rods. 


The  procession  being  formed,  the  whole  move  to  the  Hall  which  is 
to  be  dedicated,  ai.d  upon  the  arrival  of  the  procession  at  the  door, 
they  halt,  open  to  the  light  and  left,  and  face  inward,  while  the 
Grand  Master,  ana  others  in  -succession,  pass  through  and  enter.  The 
music  continues  while  the  procession  marches  three  times  around  the 
Hall. 

A  representation  of  a  "Lodge."  covered  with  white  linen,  is  then 
placed  in  the  centre,  and  the  Grand  Master,  having  then  taken  the 
chair,  under  a  canopy  of  state,  the  Grand  Officers  and  the  Masters  of 
the  Lodges  repair  to  the  places  previously  prepared  for  their  reception. 
The  three  Great  Lights,  and  the  Gold  ami  Silver  Pitchers,  with  the 
Corn,  Wine  and  Oil,  are  placed  around  the  representation  of  the 
Lodge,  at  the  head  of  which  stands  the  pedestal,  with  the  three 
Great  Lights  laid  thereon,  and  upon  another  pedestal  the  Constitu- 
tion,    Matters  being  thus  arranged,  the  following  Ode  is  sung: 


Air—Duke  Street.     L.  3L 

Master  Supreme  !  accept  our  praise; 

Still  bless  this  consecrated  band; 
Parent  of  light  !  illume  our  ways, 

And  guide  us  by  thy  sovereign  hand. 

May  Faith,  Hope,  Charity,  divine, 
Here  hold  their  undivided  reign; 

Friendship  and  Harmony  combine 
To  soothe  our  cares— to  banish  paia, 

13 


94  Dedication  of  Masonic  Halls, 

May  pity  dwell  within  each  breast, 

Belief  attend  the  suffering  poor; 
Thousands  by  this,  our  Lodge,  be  blest, 

Till  worth,  distress' cl,  shall  want  no  more. 

The  Grand  Master  then  briefly  announces  the  occasion  of  the  assem- 
blage. 

The  Master  of  the  Lodge  then  rises,  and,  approaching  the  East,, 
addresses  the  Grand  Master  as  follows: 

Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master: 

The  brethren  of  Lodge,  No.  — ,  being  animated  with  a  desire  to 
promote  the  honor  and  interest  of  the  Craft,  have  erected  a  Masonic 
Hall  for  their  convenience  and  accommodation.  They  are  desirous 
that  the  same  should  be  examined  by  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand 
Lodge,  and,  if  it  should  meet  their  approbation,  that  it  should  be 
solemnly  dedicated  to  Masonic  purposes,  agreeable  to  ancient  form 
and  usage. 

The  Architect  then  addresses  the  Grand  Master  as  follows,  present- 
ing to  him  the  Square,  Level  aud  Plumb : 

Most  Worshipful  : 

Having  been  entrusted  with  the  superintendence  and  management 
of  the  workmen  employed  in  the  construction  of  this  Hall,  and  hav- 
ing, according  to  the  best  of  my  ability,  accomplished  the  task  as- 
signed me,  I  now  return  my  thanks  for  the  honor  of  this  appointment, 
and  beg  leave  to  surrender  up  the  implements  which  were  committed 
to  my  care,  humbly  hoping  that  the  exertions  which  have  been  made 
on  this  occasion,  will  be  crowned  with  your  approbation  and  that  of 
the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge. 

To  which  the  Grand  Master  makes  the  following  reply: 

Brother  Architect  : 

The  skill  and  fidelity  displayed  in  the  execution  of  the  trust  reposed 
in  you  at  the  commencement  of  this  undertaking,  have  secured  the 
entire  approbation  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  they  sincerely  pray  that 
this  Hall  may  continue  a  lasting  monument  of  the  taste,  spirit  and 
liberality  of  its  founders. 

The  Deputy  Grand  Master  then  rises  and  says : 


Dedication  of  Masonic  Halls.  05 

Most  Worshipful: 

The  hall  in  which  we  are  now  assembled,  and  the  plan  upon  which 
it  has  been  constructed,  having  met  with  your  approbation,  it  is  the 
desire  of  the  Fraternity  that  it  should  now  be  dedicated  according  to 
ancient  form  and  usage. 

The  representation  of  the  Lodge  is  then  uncovered,  and  a  proces- 
s-ion is  made  around  it  in  the  following  form  (during  which  solemn 
music  is  played) : 

Grand  Sword  Bearer. 

A  Past  Master,  with  a  light. 

A  Past  Master,  with  the  Three  Great  Lights. 

Grand  Secretary  and   Treasurer,  with  Jewels. 

■Junior  Grand  Warden,  with  a  Pitcher  of  Corn. 

Senior  Grand  Warden,  with  a  Pitcher  of  Wine. 

Deputy  Grand  Master,  with  a  Pitcher  of  OU. 

Steward,  with  Rod.  Grand  Master.  Steward,  with  Rod. 

Grand  Tiler 


All  the  other  brethren  keep  their  places,  and  when  the  Grand  Mas- 
ter arrives  at  the  East  the  procession  halts  and  the  Grand  Chaplain 
makes  the  folio  win  i>- 


Invocation  : 

"  Great  Architect  of  the  Universe  !  Maker  and  Ruler  of  all  the 
World  !  deign,  from  Thy  celestial  temple,  from  realms  of  light  and 
glory,  to  bless  us  in  all  the  purposes  of  our  present  assembly  !  We 
humbly  invoke  Thee  to  give  us  at  this,  and  at  all  times,  wisdom  in  all 
our  doings,  strength  of  mind  in  all  our  difficulties,  and  the  beauty  of 
harmony  in  all  our  communications  !  Permit  us,  O  Thou  Author  of 
Light  and  Life,  Great  Source  of  Love  and  Happiness,  to  erect  this 
hall,  and  solemnly  dedicate  it  to  the  honor  of  Thy  glory  !"' 

At  the  conclusion  the  brethren  respond  : 

"  Glory  be  to  God  on  high,  on  earth  peace,  good  will  toward  men." 

The  Junior  Grand  Warden  then  presents  the  vessel  of  corn  to  the 
Grand  Master,  who  pours  it  on  the  Lodge,  saying: 

In  the  name  of  the  Great  Jehovah  I  do  solemnly  dedicate  this  hall 
to  Freemasonry. 


96  Laying  Foundation-Stones. 

The  public  Grand  Honors  are  then  given. 

A  piece  of  music  is  then  performed,  and  the  second  procession  is 
made  around  the  Lodge. 

When  the  Grand  Master  arrives  at  the  East  the  music  ceases,  and 
the  Senior  Grand  Warden  presents  him  with  the  vessel  of  wine,  which 
he  sprinkles  over  the  Lodge,  saying: 

In  the  name  of  the  Holy  Saints  John  I  do  solemnly  dedicate  this 
hall  to  Virtue. 

The  public  Grand  Honors  are  then  given. 

The  music  is  resumed,  and  the  third  procession  is  made  around  the 
Lodge. 

When  the  Grand  Master  arrives  at  the  East  the  music  ceases,  and 
the  Deputy  Grand  Master  presents  him  with  the  vessel  of  oil,  which 
he  sprinkles  over  the  Lodge,  saying: 

In  the  name  of  the  whole  Fraternity  I  do  solemnly  dedicate  this  hall 
to  Universal  Benevolence. 

The  public  Grand  Honors  are  then  given : 

Benediction  by  the  Grand  Chaplain. 

The  Lord  of  grace  and  life  mercifully  look  upon  us  and  bless  us; 
make  His  face  shiue  upon  us  that  we  may  have  peace ;  and  to  Him 
be  glory,  now  and  forever.     Amen. 

Response  by  the  brethren: 

"  Glory  be  to  God  on  high,  on  earth  peace,  good  will  toward  men." 

The  Lodge  is  then  covered,  and  the  public  Grand  Honors  are  given, 
when  the  Grand  Master  resumes  his  chair,  an  oration  is  then  pro- 
nounced, and  the  ceremonies  conclude  with  music.  Visitors  not 
Masons  retire.     The  Grand  Lodge  is  then  closed  in  ample  form. 


CHAPTER  THIRD. 


Laying  Foundation-Stones  of  Public  Structures. 

This  Ceremony  is  conducted  by  the  Grand  Master  and  his  officers, 
assisted  by  the  members  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  such  officers  and 
members  of  Subordinate  Lodges  as  can  conveniently  attend. 

The  Chief  Magistrate  and  other  civil  officers  of  the  place  where  the 
building  is  to  be  erected,  also  generally  attend  on  the  occasion. 


Laying  Found ation-S tones.  97 

At  the  time  appointed,  the  Grand  Lodge  is  convened  in  some  suita- 
ble place 

A  band  of  music  is  provided,  and  the  brethren  appear,  dressed  in 
dark  clothes,  and  white  gloves  and  aprons. 

The  Lodge  is  opened  by  the  Grand  Master,  and  the  rules  for  regu- 
lating the  procession  to  and  from, the  place  where  the  ceremony  is  to 
be  performed,  are  read  by  the  Grand  Secretary. 

The  necessary  cautions  are  then  given  from  the  Chair,  and  the 
Grand  Lodge  is  called  from  labor;  after  which  the  procession  sets  out 
in  the  following  order. 

Tiler,  with  drawn  Sword; 

Stewards,  with  Rods; 

Master  Masons; 

Two  Deacons,  with  Rods; 

Secretary  and  Treasurer ; 

Past  Wardens; 

Two  Wardens; 

Past  Masters ; 

Mark  Masters; 

Royal  Arch  Masons ; 

Knights  Templar;* 

Music ; 

Grand  Tiler,  with  drawn  Sword  ; 

Grand  Stewards,  with  white  Rods ; 

Principal  Architect,  with  Square,  Level,  and  Plumb; 

Grand  Secretary  and  Grand  Treasurer ; 

Bible,  Square,  and  Compasses,  carried  by  a  Master  of  a  Lodge, 

supported  by  two  Stewards; 

Grand  Chaplains; 

The  Five  Orders  of  Architecture; 

Past  Grand  Wardens; 

Past  Deputy  Grand  Masters; 

Past  Grand  Masters; 

Chief  Magistrate  and  Civil  Officers  of  the  place; 

*  Whenever  Knights  Templar  appear  in  a  procession,  they  should  act  as 
an  escort  or  guard  of  honor  to  the  Grand  Lodjre. 

Junior  Grand  Warden,  carrying  the  Silver  Vessel  with  Oil; 

Senior  Grand  Warden,  carrying  the  Silver  Vessel  with  Wine ; 

Deputy  Grand  Master,  carrying  the  Golden  Vessel  with  Corn ; 

Master  of  the  oldest  Lodge,  carrying  the  Book  of  Constitutions; 

Grand  Master, 

Supported  by  two  Deacons,  with  Rods; 


98  Laying  Foundation- St  ones- 

Grand  Standard-Bearer"; 
Graud  Sword  Bearer,  with  drawn  Sword. 

A  triumphal  arch  is  usually  erected  at  the  place  where  the  ceremony 
is  to  be  performed.  , 

The  procession,  arriving  at  the  arch,  opens  to  the  right  and  left, 
and,  uncovering,  the  Grand  Master  and  his  officers  pass  through  the 
lines  to  the  platform,  while  the  rest  of  the  brethren  surround  the 
platform,  forming  a  hollow  square. 

The  Grand  Master  commands  silence,  and  announces  the  purposes 
of  the  occasion,  when  the  following  or  some  other  appropriate  Ode  is 


sun  o ; 


Music — Rule  Brits  n  n  ia. 

When  earth's  foundation  first  was  laid, 

By  the  Almighty  Artist's  hand, 
'Twas  then  our  perfect,  our  perfect  laws  were  made, 
Established  by  his  strict  command. 

Hail!  mysterious,  hail,  glorious  Masonry ! 
That  makes  us  ever  great  and  free. 

In  vain  mankind  for  shelter  sought, 
In  vain  from  place  to  place  did  roam, 

Until  from  heaven,  from  heaven  he  was  taught 
To  plan,  to  build,  to  fix  his  home. 
Hail!  mysterious,  etc. 

Illustrious  hence  we  date  our  Art, 

Which  now  in  beauteous  piles  appear, 

And  shall  to  endless,  to  endless  time  impart, 
How  worthy  and  how  great  we  are. 
Hail!  mysterious,  etc. 

Nor  we  less  famed  for  every  tie, 

By  which  the  human  thought  is  bound ; 

Love  truth  and  friendship,  and  friendship  socially, 
Unite  our  hearts  and  hands  around. 
Hail!  mysterious,  etc. 

Our  actions  still  by  Virtue  blest, 

And  to  our  precepts  ever  true, 
The  world,  admiring,  admiring,  shall  request 

To  learn,  and  our  bright  paths  pursue. 
Hail!  mysterious,  etc. 


Laying  Foundation-Stones.  90 

The  necessary  preparations  are  now  made  for  laying  the  stone,  on 
which  are  engraved  the  year  of  Masonry,  the  name  of  the  Grand  Master, 
and  such  other  particulars  as  may  be  deemed  necessary. 

The  stone  is  raised  up  by  the  means  of  an  engine,  erected  for  that 
purpose. 

The  Grand  Chaplain  delivers  the  following  or  some  other  appro- 
priate 

Prayer : 

Almighty  God,  who  hast  given  us  grace  at  this  time  with  one  accord 
to  make  our  common  supplications  unto  thee;  and  dost  promise  that, 
where  two  or  three  are  gathered  together  in  thy  name,  thou  wilt  grant 
their  requests ;  fulfill  now,  O  Lord,  the  desires  and  petitions  of  thy 
servants,  as  may  be  most  expedient  for  them;  granting  us  in  this 
world  knowledge  of  thy  truth,  and  in  the  world  to  come  life  ever- 
lasting.— Amen. 

Response. — So  mote  it  be. 

The  Grand  Treasurer,  by  the  Grand  Master's  command,  places  un- 
der the  stone  various  sorts  of  coin  and  medals,  Masonic  documents, 
and  such  other  matters  as  may  be  of  interest. 

Solemn  music  is  introduced,  and  the  stone  is  let  down  into  its 
place. 

The  principal  Architect  then  presents  the  working  tools  to  the 
Grand  Master,  who  hands  the  Square  to  the  Deputy  Grand  Master, 
the  Level  to  the  Senior  Grand  Warden,  and  the  Plumb  to  the  Junior 
Grand  Warden ;  when  the  Grand  Master  addresses  the  Grand  Officers, 
as  follows : 

Grand  Master.  R.  W.  Deputy  Grand  Master:  What  is  the 
proper  jewel  of  your  office? 

Deputy  Grand  Master.     The  Square.  *: 

G.  M.     What  are  its  moral  and  Masonic  uses  ? 

D.  G.  M.  To  square  our  actions  by  the  Square  of  Virtue,  and 
prove  our  worJK. 

G.  M.  Apply  the  implement  of  your  office  to  that  portion  of  the 
foundation-stone  that  needs  to  be  proved,  and  make  report. 

The  Deputy  applies  the  Square  to  the  stone,  and  says: 

D.  G.  31.  Most  Worshipful:  1  find  the  stone  to  be  square.  The 
Craftsmen  have  performed  their  duty. 

G.  M.  R.  W.  Senior  Grand  Warden  :  What  is  the  proper  jewel 
of  your  office  ? 

Senior  Grand  Warden.     The  Level. 


100  Laying  Foundation- St  ones. 

G.  31.     What  is  its  Masonic  use  ? 

8.  G.  W.  Morally,  it  reminds  us  of  equality,  and  its  use  is  to  lay 
horizontals. 

G.  M.  Apply  the  implement  of  your  office  to  the  foundation-stone, 
and  make  report. 

This  is  done. 

8.  G.  W.  Most  Worshipful.  I  find  the  stone  to  be  level  The 
Craftsmen  have  performed  their  duty. 

G.  M.  R.  W.  Junior  Grand  Warden:  What  is  the  proper  jewel 
of  your  office  ? 

Junior  Grand  Warden.     The  Plumb. 

G.  M.     What  is  its  Masonic  use  ? 

J.  G.  W.  Morally,  it  teaches  rectitude  of  conduct,  and  we  use  it 
to  try  perpendiculars. 

G.  M  Apply  the  implement  of  your  office  to  the  several  edges  of 
the  foundation-stone,  and  make  report. 

This  is  complied  with. 

J.  G.  W.  31  ost  Worshipful:  I  find  the  stone  is  plumb.  The 
Craftsmen  have  performed  their  duty. 

G.  31.  This  corner  stone  has  been  tested  by  the  proper  implements 
of  Masonry.  I  find  that  the  Craftsmen  have  skillfully  and  faithfully 
performed  their  duty,  and  I  do  declare  the  stone  to  be  well  formed, 
true,  and  trusty,  and  correctly  laid,  according  to  the  rules  of  our 
ancient  Craft. 

Let  the  elements  of  Consecration  now  be  presented. 


The  Deputy  Grand  Master  comes  forward  with  the   vessel  of   Corn, 
and,  scattering  it  on  the  stone,  says: 


I  scatter  this  corn  as  an  emblem  of  plenty.  May  the  blessings  of 
bounteous  Heaven  be  showered  upon  us  and  upon  all  like  patriotic 
and  benevolent  undertakings,  and  inspire  the  hearts  of  the  people 
with  virtue,  wisdom,  and  gratitude. 

Response. — So  mote  it  be. 

The  Senior  Grand.  Warden  then  comes  forward  with  the  vessel  of 
Wine,  and  pours  it  upon  the  stone ;  saying, 


Xayijig  Toivnclation-S  tones.  101 

I  pour  this  wine  as  an  emblem  of  joy  and  gladness.  May  the  Great 
Ruler  of  the  Universe  bless  and  prosper  our  national,  state,  and  city 
•governments,  preserve  the  union  of  the  States,  and  may  it  be  a  bond 
of  Friendship  and  Brotherly  Lore  that  shall  endure  through  all  time. 

Response. — So  mote  it  be. 

The  Junior  Grand  Warden  then  comes  forward  with  a  vessel  of  Oil, 
which  he  pours  upon  the  stone,  saying, 

I  pour  this  oil  as  an  emblem  of  peace.  May  its  blessings  abide  with 
us  continually,  and  may  the  Grand  Master  of  heaven  and  earth  shelter 
and  protect  the  widow  and  orphan,  shield  and  defend  them  from 
trials  and  vicissitudes  of  the  world,  and  so  bestow  his  mercy  upon  the 
bereaved,  the  afflicted,  and  the  sorrowing,  that  they  may  know  sor- 
rowing and  trouble  no  more. 

Response. — So  mote  it  be. 

The  Grand  Master,  standing  in  front  of  all,  and  extending  his 
hands,  makes  the  following 

Invocation 

May  the  all-botmteous  Author  of  Nature  bless  the  inhabitants  of 
this  place  with  an  abundance  of  the  necessaries,  conveniences  and 
■comforts  of  life;  assist  in  the  erection  and  completion  of  this  build- 
ing; protect  the  workmen  against  every  accident;  long  preserve  the 
structure  from  decay;  and  grant  to  ns  all  a  supply  of  the  ccrn  of 
.nourishment,  the  wine  of  refreshment,  and  the  oil  of  Joy-. — Amen. 

Response. — So  mote  it  be. 

The  Grand  Master  strikes  the  stone  three  times  with  the  gavel,  and 
the  public  grand  honors  are  given. 

The~Grand  Master  then  delivers  over  to  the  Architect  the  imple- 
ments of  architecture;  saying, 

Worthy.  Sir  (or  Brother):  Having  thus,  as  Grand  Master  of  Ma- 
sons, laid  the  foundation  stone  of  this  structure,  I  now  deliver  these 
implements  of  your  profession  into  your  hands,  intrusting  you  with 
the  superintendence  and  direction  of  the  work,  having  full  confidence 
In  your  skill  and  capacity  to  conduct  the  same. 

14 


$02  Funeral  Services: 

The  Grand  Master  ascends- the  platform,  when   an  appropriate  An- 
them may  be  sung. 

The  Grand  Master  then  addresses  the  assembly  as  follows: 

Men  and  Brethren  here  assembled:  Be  it  known  unto  yon,  that: 
we  be  lawful  Masons,  true  and  faithful  to  the  laws  of  our  country,  and 
engaged,  by  solemn  obligations,  to  erect  magnificent  buildings,  to  be- 
serviceable  to  the  brethren,  and  to  fear  God,  the  Great  Architect  of 
the  Universe.  We  have  among  us,  concealed  from  the  eyes  of  all- 
men,  secrets  which  cannot  be  divulged,  and  wdiieh  have  never  been 
found  out;  but  these  secrets  are  lawful  and  honorable,  and  not  re- 
pugnant to  the  laws  of  God  or  man,  They  were  intrusted,  in  peace 
and  honor,  to  the  Masons  of  ancient  times,  and  having  been  faithfully 
transmitted  to  us,  it  is  our  duty  to  convey  them  unimpaired  to  the 
latest  posterity.  Unless  our  Craft  were  good,  and  our  calling  honor- 
able, we  should  not  have  lasted  for  so  many  centuries,  nor  should  we 
have  been  honored  with  the  patronage  of  so  many  illustrious  men  in 
all  ages,  who  have  ever  shown  themselves  ready  to  promote  our  in- 
terests and  defend  us  from  all  adversaries.  We  are  assembled  here- 
to day  in  the  face  of  you  all,  to  build  a  house,  ^  hich  we  pray  God 
may  deserve  to  prosper,  by  becoming  a  place  of  concourse  for  good 
men,  and  promoting  harmony  and  brotherly  love  throughout  the 
world,  till  time  shall  be  no  more. — Aji^n. 

Response.—  So  mote  it  be! 


The  Grand  Chaplain  then  pronounces  the  benediction. 
The  procession  returns  in  the  same  order  to   the   place  whence  it 
set  out.  and  the  Grand  Lodge  is  closed  with  the  usual  formalities* 


CHAPTER  FOURTH, 

Funeral  Services. 


This  Chapter  contains  the  ceremonies  to  be  observed  on  the  occa- 
sions of  Funerals. 

Directions. 

I.  No  Mason  can  be  buried  with  the  formalities  of  the  Fraternity, 
unless  he  has  been  raised  to  the  degree   of  Master  Mason,    and  is  a 


■Ftnievctl  Services.  108 

'member  in  good  standing  of  a  regular  Lodge  at  the  time  of  his  death ; 
nor  unless  at  his  own  request,  a  member  of  his  family,  or  the  Lodge 
•  of  which  he  was  a  member.  It  is,  however,  the  duty  of  the  Master  of 
the  Lodge,  on  the  decease  of  a  member,  or  sojourning  brother,  in  regu- 
lar standing,  to  ascertain  if  Masonic  honors  would  be  agreeable,  and, 
if  so,  to  cause  the  necessary  and  proper  Masonic  arrangements  to  be 
made  therefor. 

II.  Entered  Apprentices  or  Fellow  Crafts  cannot  unite  as  Masons 
in  the  funeral  obsequies  of  a  brother. 

III.  The  Master  of  the  Lodge  having  supervision  of  the  ceremonies 
may  invite  other  Lodges,  or  their  individual  members,  to  participate 
in  the  services  of  respect,  but  the  entire  ceremony  must  be  under  his 
direction. 

IV.  If  other  orders  or  organizations  unite  with  the  Masonic  Fra- 
ternity in  the  burial  of  a  Mason,  the  body  of  the  deceased  must  be  in 
charge  of  the  Lodge  having  jurisdiction,  and  the  Masonic  services  at 
the  grave  should  succeed  all  other  services  and  the  Masons  should 
complate  the  burial 

V.  The  pall  bearers  should  be  selected  by  the  officiating  Master 
from  among  the  Masons,  but  some  of  them  may  be  the  representatives 
of  other  orders  or  organizations  of  which  the  deceased  was  a  member; 
they  shall,  however,  be  clothed  as  Masons. 

VI.  On  funeral  or  burial  occasions  Masons  should,  when  praticable, 
be  clothed  in  black,  with  white  aprons  and  gloves,  officers  with  their 
jewels,  and  all  with  black  crape  upon  the  left  arm  above  the  elbow\ 
In  addition  a  piece  of  blue  ribbon  overlaid  with  narrow  black  ribbon, 
may  be  worn  on  the  lappel  of  the  coat,  according  to  individual  taste. 
Each  one  should,  also,  provide  himself  with  a  sprig  of  evergreen. 

VII.  The  order  of  procession  should  be  strictly  observed  as  pre- 
scribed in  t his  service.  When  the  head  of  the  procession  shall  arrive 
at  the  place  where  the  funeral  or  burial  services  are  to  be  performed, 
the  column  shall  open  order,  facing  inward,  and  the  officers  accord- 
ing to  rank,  preceded  by  the  Marshal  and  Tiler,  pass  through  and  the 
others  follow  in  order.  When  the  procession  is  re-fofemd  the  usual 
order  is  to  be  observed.  The  order  of  exercises  at  the  grave  is  pre- 
scribed in  the  body  of  the  service. 

The  brethren  being  assembled  at  the  lodge-room,  (or  some  other 
convenient  place,)  the  presiding  officer  opens  the  Lodge  in  the  third 
degree,  with  the  usual  forms;  and  having  stated  the  purpose  of  the 
communication,  the  service  begins: 

Master.  "  What  man  is  he  that  liveth,  and  shall  not  see  death? 
Shall  he  deliver  his  soul  from  the  hand  of  the  grave  ?" 

Response.  "Man  walketh  in  a  vain  shadow;  he  heapeth  up  riches, 
and  cannot  tell  who  shall  gather  them.7' 

Master.  "  When  he  dieth  he  shall  carry  nothing  away;  his  glory 
shall  not  descend  after  him." 

Response.  '■  Naked  he  came  into  the  world,  and  naked  he  must 
return." 

Master.  "The  Lord  gave,  and  the  Lord  hath  taken  away:  blessed 
be  the  name  of  the  Lord  !" 


lOJj.  Fumerat  Services: 

The  Master  then  taking  the  roll  in  his- hand,  says, 

"Let  us  live  and  die  like  the  righteous,  that  our  last  end  may  be; 
like  his  !" 

The  Brethren  answer,  God  is  our  God  for  ever  and  ever ;  he  will  be 
our  guide  even  unto  death  !" 


The  Master  then  records  the  name  and  age   of   the  deceased   upom 
the  roU,  and  says, 


"  Almighty  Father  !  in  thy  hands  we  leave  with  humble  submission 
the  soul  of  our  deceased  Brother." 

The  Brethren  answer  three  times,  (giving  the  grand  honors  eacb 
time,) 

"  The  will  of  God  is  accomplished  !     So  mote  it  be.     Amen." 

The  Master  then  deposits  the  roll  vet  the  archives?  and  repeats  the 
following  Prayer : 

"  Most  glorious  God  !  author  of  all  good,  and  giver  of  all  mercy  I 
pour  down  thy  blessings  upon  us,  aud  strengthen  our  solemn  engage- 
ments with  the  ties  of  sincere  affection!  May  the  present  instance  of 
mortality  remind  us  of  our  approaching  fate,  and  draw  our  attention 
toward  thee,  the  only  refuge  in  time  of  need!  that,  when  the  awful 
moment  shall  arrive,  that  we  are  about  to  quit  this  transitory  scene, 
the  enlivening  prospect  of  thy  mercy,  through  the  Redeemer,  may 
dispel  the  gloom  of  death;  and  after  our  departure  hence  in  peacey 
and  in  thy  favor,  may  we  be  received  into  thine  everlasting  kingdom, 
to  enjoy,  in  union  with  the  souls  of  our  departed  friends,  the  just  re- 
ward of  a  pious  and  virtuous  life.     Amen." 

A  procession  is  then  formed,  which  moves  to  the  house  of  the  de- 
ceased, and  thence  to  the  place  of  interment. 

Order  of  Procession, 

Tiler  with  a  drawn  Sword  ; 

Stewards  with  white  Rods ; 

Musicians,  (if  they  are  masons,)  otherwise  they  follow  the  Tiler: 


Funeral  Services.  105 

Master  Masons ; 
Jj       Senior  and  Junior  Deacons; 
~         Treasurer  and  Secretary  ; 
^       Senior  and  Junior  Wardens; 
Mark  Masters ; 
Past  Masters; 
Royal  Arch  Masons; 

Select  Masters ; 

Knights  Templar; 

The  Holy  Writings,  on  a   cushion,  covered  with   black   cloth,  carried 

by  the  oldest,  (or  some  suitable)  Member  of  the  Lodge; 

The  Master; 

Clergy ; 

The    \\"'.\\  .     \\  1:  ll    '  lie  ,  I        'J    II   1    \<~   I'-   ,1    1  hereon, 

Pall  Bearers.  K^f  Pall  Bearers, 


When  the  procession  arrives  at  the  church  yard,  the  members  of  the 
Lodge  form  a  circle  around  the  grave;  and  the  clergymen  and  officers 
of  the  Lodge  take  their  station  at  the  head  of  the  grave,  and  the 
mourners  at  the  foot.  The  service  is  resumed,  and  the  following  Ex- 
hortation is  given: 


"  Here  we  view  a  striking  instance  of  the  uncertainty  of  life,  and 
the  vanity  of  all  human  pursuits.  The  last  offices  paid  to  the  dead, 
are  only  useful  as  lectures  to  the  living:— from  them  we  are  to  derive 
instruction,  and  to  consider  every  solemnity  of  this  kind  as  a  summons 
to  prepare  for  our  approaching  dissolution. 

"Notwithstanding  the  various  mementos  of  mortality,  with  which 
we  daily  meet;  notwithstanding  Death  has  established  his  empire  over 
all  the  works  of  nature;  yet,  through  some  unaccountable  infatua- 
tion, we  forget  that  wre  are  born  to  die;  we  go  on  from  one  design  to 
another,  add  hope  to  hope,  and  lay  out  plans  for  the  employment  of 
many  years,  till  we  are  suddenly  alarmed  with  the  approach  of  Death, 
when  we  least  expect  him,  and  at  an  hour  which  we  probably  con- 
clude to  be  the  meridian  of  our  existence. 

"  What  are  all  the  externals  of  majesty,  the  pride  of  wealth,  or 
charms  of  beauty,  when  Nature  has  paid  her  just  debt  ? — Fix  your 
eyes  on  the  last  scene,  and  view  life  stript  of  her  ornaments,  and  ex- 


106  Funeral  Services. 

posed  in  her  natural  meanness;  you  will  then  be  convinced  of  the 
futility  of  those  empty  delusions.  In  the  grave,  all  fallacies  are  de- 
tected, all  ranks  are  leveled,  and  all  distinctions  are  dona  away. 

'•  While  we  drop  the  sympathetic  tear  over  the  grave  of  our  de- 
ceased frieDd,  let  charity  incline  us  to  throw  a  veil  over  his  foibles, 
whatever  they  may  have  been,  and  not  withhold  from  his  memory  the 
praise  that  his  virtues  may  have  claimed.  Suffer  the  apologies  of 
human  nature  to  plead  in  his  behalf.  Perfection  on  earth  has  never 
been  attained; — the  wisest,  as  well  as  the  best  of  men,  have  erred. 

"  Let  the  present  example  excite  our  most  serious  thoughts,  and 
strengthen  our  iesolutions  of  amendment.  As  life  is  uncertain,  and 
all  earthly  pursuits  are  vain,  let  us  no  longer  postpone  the  all-impor- 
tant concern  of  preparing  for  eternity;  but  embrace  the  happy  mo- 
ment, while  time  and  opportunity  offer,  to  provide  against  the  great 
change,  when  all  tl.e  pleasures  of  this  world  shall  cease  to  delight, 
and  the  reflections  of  a  virtuous  and  holy  life  yield  the  only  comfort 
and  consolation.  Thus  our  expectations  will  not  be  frustrated,  nor 
we  hurried  unprepared  into  the  presence  of  an  all-wise  and  powerful 
Judge,  to  whom  the  secrets  of  all  hearts  are  known. 

"  Let  us,  while  iu  this  state  of  existence,  support  with  propriety 
the  character  of  our  profession,  advert  to  the  nature  of  our  solemn 
ties,  and  pursue  with  assiduity  the  sacred  tenets  of  our  order.  Then, 
with  becoming  reverence,  let  us  seek  the  favor  of  the  Eternal  God, 
through  the  merits  of  his  Son  our  Saviour,  so  that  when  the  awful 
moment  of  death  arrives,  be  it  soon  or  late,  we  may  be  enabled  to 
prosecute  our  journey  without  dread  or  apprehension,  to  that  far  dis- 
tant country,  whence  no  traveller  returns  " 

The  following  invocations  are  then  made  by  the  Master: 

Master.  "May  we  be  true  and  faithful;  and  may  we  live  and  die 
in  love !" 

Answer.      "  So  mote  it  be." 

Master.  "  May  we  profess  what  is  good,  and  always  act  agreeably 
to  our  profession  !" 

Answer.      "  So  mote  it  be." 

Master.      "May  the  Lord  bless  us  and  prosper  us,  and  may  all  our 
good  intentions  be  crowned  with  success  !" 
Answer.      "  So  mote  it  be." 

Master.  "Glory  be  to  God  in  the  highest;  on  earth  peace  !  good 
will  towards  men  !" 


Funeral  Services.  107 

Answer.  ''So  mote  it  be,  now,  from  henceforth,  and  for  evermore. 
Amen." 

The  apron  is  taken  off  the  coffin  and  handed  to  the  Master — the 
coffin  is  deposited  in  the  grave — and  the  Master  says: 

"  This  Lamb  Skin,  or  white  leather  Apron,  is  an  emblem  of  Inno- 
cence, and  the  badge  of  a  Mason,  more  ancient  than  the  golden  fleece 
or  Roman  eagle;  more  honorable  than  the  star  and  garter,  when 
worthily  worn.  [The  Master  then  deposits  it  in  the  grate]  This  em- 
blem I  now  deposit  in  the  grave  of  our  deceased  Brother.  By  this  we 
are  reminded  of  the  universal  dominion  of  Death.  The  arm  of  Friend- 
ship cannot  oppose  the  King  of  Terrors  nor  the  charms  of  innocence 
elude  his  grasp.  This  grave,  that  coffin,  this  circle  of  mourning 
friends,  remind  us  that  we,  too,  are  mortal:  soon  shall  our  bodies 
moulder  to  dust.  Then  how  important  for  us  that  we  should 
know  that  our  Redeemer  liveth,  and  that  he  shall  stand  at  the  latter 
day  upon  the  Earth.  [The  Master  holding  the  evergreen  in  his  hand, 
continues.]  This  evergreen  is  an  emblem  ot  our  faith  in  the  immortal- 
ity of  the  soul.  By  this  we  are  reminded  that  we  have  an  immortal 
part  within  us,  which  shall  survive  the  grave,  and  which  shall  never, 
never,  never  die.  Though  like  our  Brother,  whose  remains  now  lie 
before  us,  we  shall  soon  be  clothed  in  the  habiliments  of  Death  and 
deposited  in  the  silent  tomb,  yet,  through  the  mediation  of  a  divine 
and  ascended  Saviour,  we  may  confidently  hope  that  our  souls  will 
blooui  in  Eternal  Spring." 

The  brethren  then  move  in  procession  around  the  place  of  inter- 
ment, and  severally  drop  the  sprig  of  evergreen  into  the  grave;  after 
which,  the  public  grand  honors  are  given. 

The  Master  then  continues  the  ceremony  at  the  grave,  in  the  follow- 
ing wTords: 

"From  time  immemorial,  it  has  been  the  custom  among  the  frater- 
nity of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons,  at  the  request  of  a  brother,  to  ac- 
company his  remains  to  the  place  of  interment,  and  there  to  deposit 
them  with  the  usual  formalities. 

"  In  conformity  to  this  usage,  and  at  the  request  of  our  deceased 
brother,*  whose  memory  we  revere,  and  whose  loss  we  now  deplore, 
we  have  assembled  in   the    character    of  masons,   to  offer    up    to  his 

*If  the  request  is  made  by  the  family  of  the  deceased,  or  Lodge  to  which 
he  belonged,  the  Master  should  change  the  language  in  reading  accord- 
ingly. 


108  Funeral  Services. 

memory,  before  the  world,  the  last  tribute  of  our  affection  ;  thereby 
demonstrating  the  sincerity  of  our  past  esteem  for  him,  and  our  steady 
attachment  to  the  principles  of  the  order. 

"  The  great  Creator  having  b?en  pleased,  out  of  his  infinite  mercy,  to 
remove  our  brother  from  the  cares  and  troubles  of  a  transitory  existence, 
to  a  state  of  eternal  duration,  and  thereby  to  weaken  the  chain  by 
which  we  are  united  man  to  man;  may  we,  who  survive  him,  antici- 
pate our  approaching  fate,  and  be  more  strongly  cemented  in  the  ties 
of  union  and  friendship;  that,  during  the  short  space  allotted  to  our 
present  existence,  we  may  wisely  and  usefully  employ  our  time;  and, 
in  the  reciprocal  intercourse  of  kind  and  friendly  ac:s,  mutually  pro- 
mote the  welfare  and  happiness  of  each  other. 

"  Unto  the  grave  we  have  resigned  the  body  of  our  deceased  brother, 
earth  to  earth,  dust  to  dust,  ashes  to  ashes,  there  to  remain  until  the 
trump  shall  sound  on  the  resurrection  morn.  We  can  cheerfully  leave 
him  in  the  hands  of  a  Being  who  has  clone  all  things  well;  who  is 
glorious  in  holiness,  fearful  in  praises,  doing  wonders  Then  let  us 
all  so  improve  this  solemn  warning,  that  on  the  great  day  of  account 
we  may  receive  from  the  compassionate  Judge,  the  welcome  invita- 
tion, "  Come,  ye  blessed  of  my  Father,  inherit  the  kingdom  prepared 
for  you  from  the  foundation  of  the  world." 

"  So  mote  it  be.     Amen." 

"Almighty  and  eternal  God,  in  whom  we  live,  and  move  and  have 
our  being— and  before  whom  all  men  must  appear  in  the  judgment 
clay  to  give  an  account  of  their  deeds  in  life;  we,  who  are  daily  ex- 
posed to  flying  shafts  of  death,  and  now  surrouud  the  grave  of  our 
fallen  brother;  most  earnestly  beseech  thee  to  impress  deeply  on  our 
minds  the  solemnities  of  this  day,  as  well  as  the  lamentable  occurrence 
that  has  occasioned  them.  Here  may  we  be  forcibly  reminded,  that, 
in  the  midst  of  life  we  are  in  death,  and  that  whatever  elevation  of 
character  we  may  have  attained;  however  upright  and  square  the 
course  we  have  pursued ;  yet  shortly  must  we  all  submit  as  victims  of 
its  destroying  power,  and  endure  the  humbling  level  of  the  tomb,  until 
the  last  loud  trump  shall  sound  the  summons  of  our  resurrection  from 
motality  and  corruption. 

"May  we  have  thy  divine  assistance,  O  merciful  God,  to  redeem 
our  misspent  time;  and  in  the  discharge  of  the  important  duties  thou 
hast  assigned  us  in  the  erection  of  our  moral  edifice,  may  we  have 
tcisclom  from  on  high  to  direct  us,  strength  commensurate  with  our  task 
to  support  us,  and  the  "beauty  of  holiness  to  adorn  and  render  all  our 
performances  acceptable  in  thy  sight;  and  when  our  work  is  clone, 
and  our  bodies  mingle  with   the  mother  earth,  may  our  souls,    disen- 


Funeral  Services.  109 

gaged  from  their  cumbrous  dust,  flourish  aud   bloom  in   eternal  day; 
and  enjoy  that  rest  which  thou  hast  prepared  for  all  good  and    faith- 
ful servants,  in  that  spiritual  house,  not  made  with  hands,  eternal  in 
the  heavens,  through  the  great  Redeemer.     Amen." 
"  So  mote  it  be.     Amen." 

The  procession  then  returns  in  form  to  the  place  whence  it  set  out, 
where  the  necessary  duties  are  complied  with,  and  the  Lodge  is  closed 
in  the  third  degree. 

Note.  If  the  Grand  Master  attends,  and  presides  at  any  ceremony, 
it  is  said  to  be  performed  in  ample  form  ; — if  a  subordinate  officer  of 
the  Grand  Lodge,  in  due  form  , — if  vested  in  the  Master  of  a  subordi- 
nate Lodge,  in  form. 


15 


INSTALLATION  OF  GRAND  OFFICERS. 


At  the  hour  appointed  for  the  installation  of  the  officers  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  the  installing-  officer  (who  should  be  the  retiring  Grand 
Master,  the  actual  Grand  Master  of  another  jurisdiction,  or  a  Past 
Grand  Master,)  will  assume  the  Chair  and  call  to  order,  and  announce 
the  business  before  the  Grand  Lodge.  The  officers  to  be  installed 
will  then  vacate  their  places  respectively,  and  substitutes  will  be  ap- 
pointed for  the  occasion.  The  Grind  Master  and  the  other  Grand 
Officers  elect  to  be  installed,  will  be  in  waiting  in  an  adjoining 
apartment. 

The  announcement  of  the  Installing  Officer  may  be  in  the  following 
form  : 


Brethren:  Your  Grand  Master  and  other  Grand  Officers  for  the 
ensuing  year  having  been  duly  elected,  we  are  now  in  readiness  to 
perform  the  ceremony  of  installation.  The  Grand  Marshal  will  an- 
nounce to  them  that  we  are  waiting  to  receive  them. 

The  Grand  Marshal  then  retires,  and,  on  his  return,  reports: 

Most  Worshipful:  The  Grand  Master,  and  other  Grand  Officers 
elect,  are  without  in  readiness  to  be  installed  into  office  when  it  is 
your  pleasure  to  receive  them. 

Installing  Officer.  The  Grand  Marshal  will  admit  them  and 
conduct  them  to  the  East  before  the  altar.  (Any  objection  to  the  in- 
stallation must  now  be  made.) 

As  they  enter  the  room,  the  Grand  Lodge  is  called  up  by  the  In- 
stalling Officer  in  the  usual  manner,  and  remains  standing. 

The  Grand  Marshal  conducts  them  to  the  altar  in  procession,  two 
and  two,  in  order  of  rank — the  Grand  Master  elect  and  the  Deputy 
Grand  Master  being  first.     He  then  says: 

Most  Worshipful,  the  Grand  Officers  elect  are  before  you,  and  await 
your  pleasure.     I  have  the  honor  to  present  to  you  for  installation 

Brother ,  who  has  been  duly  elected  Grand  Master  of 

Masons  of  the  State  of  North  Carolina,  for  the  ensuing  year. 

Installing  Officer.  (To  the  Grand  Master  elect.)  My  Brother,  the 
exalted  station  to  which  the  free  choice   of  your  brethren   has  called 


112  Installation  of  Grand  Officers. 

you,  involves  great  responsibilities,  and  requires  to  be  inaugurated  by 
solemn  sanctions.  It  elevates  you  to  a  position  from  which  the  power 
and  prerogative  may  depart  with  the  expiration  of  your  term  of  ser- 
vice, but  the  honor  and  dignity,  except  by  your  own  act,  never. 
Have  you  been  instructed  in  the  secret  rites  and  ceremonies  apper- 
taining to  the  high  office  of  Grand  Master  of  Masons  preparatory  to 
your  installation,  and  by  which  you  may  acquire  and  forever  retain 
the  evidence  of  your  rank  among  Masons? 

Grand  Master  elect.     I  have  not. 

Ins.  Off.  My  brother,  it  will  be  necessary  for  you  to  retire  and  re- 
ceive those  instructions  from  our  Most  Worshipful  Past  Grand  Mas- 
ters here  present,  who  will  escort  you.  And  as  we  are  now  upon  the 
threshold  of  a  great  and  important  undertaking,  Masonic  teachings 
require  that  we  should  bow  in  solemn  prayer  witli  our  Grand  Chap- 
lain. 

Grand  Chaplain.     Brethren,  let  us  pray  I    ******     * 

Ins.  Off.  The  Most  Worshipful  Brethren,  Past  Grand  Masters 
present,  will  now  retire  with  the  Grand  Master  elect,  and  give  him 
the  suitable  instruction  in  the  manner  known  to  them  only,  prelimi- 
nary to  the  further  ceremonies  of  installation.  Brethren  will  be 
seated. 

He  then  calls  "down."  and  the  Grand  Officers  elect,  other  than  the 
Grand  Master,  are  provided  with  seats  near  the  altar.  The  Past  Grand 
Masters  retire  to  some  suitable  apartment  and  engage  in  the  proper 
ceremonies  wTith  the  Grand  Master  elect.  When  this  is  done  they  re- 
turn, having  previously  given  notice  of  their  approach  by  the  Grand 
Marshal.  Upon  their  entrance  the  Grand  Lodge  is  again  called  up, 
and  alter  they  have  arrived  near  the  East,  one  of  their  number  says: 

"  Most  Worshipful,  our  distinguished  brother  having  been  duly  in- 
structed by  us,  is  now  prepared  to  assume  his  installation  vows  " 

Ins.  Off.  It  is  well;  and  with  pleasure  do  we  now  proceed  in  our 
further  service.  Grand  Marshal,  you  will  conduct  our  brother  to  the 
altar,  to  take  upon  himself  the  obligation  appertaining  to  the  duties 
of  his  office. 

The  Grand  Marshal  conducts  him  to  the  altar,  where  he  kueels,  the 
acting  Grand  Deacons  holding  their  rods  crossed  over  his  head.  The 
Installing  Officer  then  administers  the  oath  of  office,  the  Grand  Mas 
ter  elect  repeating  after  him,  as  follows: 

'•I  solemnly  promise,  upon  the  honor  of  a  Mason,  that,  in  the  office 
of » I  will,  according  to  the  best  of 


Installation  of  Grand  Officers.  113 

my  abilities,   strictly  comply  with   the   laws   and   regulations   of  this 
Grand  Lodge    and  other  ancient  masonic  usages." 

He  then  rises  and  the  Grand  Marshal  conducts  him  near  the  chair  of 
the  Installing  Officer. 

Ins.  Off.  Most  Worshipful  Brother — (for  from  henceforth  you  are 
entitled  thus  to  be  bailed) — in  inducting  you  to  your  chair  of  office  as 
a  symbol  of  the  commencement  of  your  government  over  the  Craft,  I 
am  performing  a  most  solemn  duty.  By  immemorial  usage  and  the 
irrevocable  landmarks  of  Masonry,  you  are  invested  as  Grand  Master 
of  Masons,  with  powers  and  prerogatives  which  are  well  nigh  abso- 
lute. The  interests  of  the  craft,  for  weal  or  wo,  are  placed  in  your 
hands  during  your  term  of  office.  The  good  resolutions,  which  I 
doubt  not  that  you  have  formed  in  your  own  mind  that  these  powers 
shall  not  be  abused  or  perverted  by  you,  I  would  gladly  strengthen  by 
a  word  of  admonition,  which  it  will  not  become  one  henceforth  to 
utter.  The  very  consciousness  of  the  possession  of  a  great  power  will 
ever  make  a  generous  mind  cautious  and  gentle  in  its  exercise.  To  rule 
has  been  the  lot  of  many,  and  requires  neither  strength  of  intellect, 
nor  soundness  of  judgment ;  to  rule  well  has  been  the  fortune  of  but 
few,  and  may  well  be  the  object,  of  all  honorable  ambition.  It  is  not 
by  the  strong  arm  or  the  iron  will,  that  obedience  and  order,  the 
chief  requisites  of  good  government,  are  secured,  but  by  holding  the 
key  to  the  hearts  of  men. 

The  office  of  Grand  Master  is  of  great  antiquity  and  respect,  and  is 
one  of  the  highest  dignities  to  which  we  may  aspire.  Its  incumbent, 
to  rule  well,  should  possess  and  practice  several  important  requisites. 
As  a  man,  he  should  be  of  approved  integrity  and  irreproachab'e 
morals;  freed  from  the  dominion  of  hasty  temper  and  ill-governed 
passions;  of  good  repute  in  the  world,  and  practicing,  as  an  example 
to  the  craft,  the  cardinal  virtues  of  Temperance,  Fortitude,  Prud- 
ence, and  Justice.  As  a  citizen,  he  should  be  loyal  to  his  government, 
obedient  to  its  laws,  prompt  in  the  duties  he  owes  to  society,  and  a 
pattern  of  fidelity  in  all  social  and  domestic  relations.  As  a  Mason, 
he  should  cling  to  the  old  landmarks,  and  be  sternly  opposed  to  their 
infringement;  be  proficient  in  the  lawTs,  language,  and  literature  of 
the  fraternity;  be  desirous  to  learn,  and  apt  to  teach;  though  not  for 
the  time  a  workman,  yet  be  master  of  the  work  and  qualified  to  earn 
his  wages;  be  prompt  to  aid  and  relieve,  and  slow  to  demand  it;  be 
ever  mindful  that,  though  elevated  for  a  time  above  his  fellows, 
he  is  elevated  by  them,  and  that  he  is  yet  a  craftsman,  more  sacredly 
bound  by  a  craftman's  obligation ;  and  that  he  should  cultivate  every- 


llJf  Installation  of  Grand  Officers. 

where,  and  at  all  times,  the  golden  tenets  of  Brotherly  Love,  "Relief, 
and  Truth.  As  an  officer,  he  should  remember,  first  of  all,  that  he  is 
an  individual  mason,  sharing  in  that  respect  a  common  lot  with  his 
brethren,  and,  therefore,  interested  in  the  welfare  of  each  and  all;  be 
devoid  of  undue  ostentation  and  haughty  overbearing;  be  accessible 
to  all ;  cultivating  the  closest  friendship  and  the  most  unlimited  con- 
fidence with  his  associate  officers;  be  eager  to  take  counsel  with  his 
brethren,  and  ready  to  give  it;  be  patient  in  investigation  and  hear- 
ing; be  deliberate  in  judgment ;  be  prompt  in  execution  ;  be  forbearing 
long  and  much  with  evil-doers;  be  ready  to  reward  good  ;  be  devoid  of 
favoritism  and  wholly  impartial;  be  watchful  over  the  treasury;  hav- 
ing an  eagle  eye  upon  every  portion  of  his  jurisdiction;  and  breasting 
over  the  restless  spirit  of  innovation.  Such  are  some  of  the  most  im- 
portant qualifications  which  a  Grand  Master  should  possess,  and  the 
leading  errors  which  he  should  avoid.  It  may  be  that  most,  if  not 
all,  your  predecessors  have  failed  to  reach  this  standard,  but  it  is  at- 
tainable; and  be  it  your  purpose  to  reach  it,  and  be  a  bright  and 
shining  example  to  those  who  shall  come  after  you!  It  now  but  re- 
mains for  me  to  clothe  you  with  the  external  insiguia  of  your  rank 
and  authority.  I  now  with  pleasure  invest  you  with  this  jewel  of  your 
office,  whose  symbolic  meaning  will  now  have  a  new  and  striking  sig- 
nificance to  you.  (Presents  the  jewel.)  I  also  present  you  with  this 
gavel  as  the  potent  emblem  of  Masonic  power,  which,  in  your  hands, 
should  never  be  sounded  in  vain.  (Presents  the  gavel.)  I  now  sur- 
render to  you  this  seat  of  authority.  (Conducts  him  to  the  chair.) 
And  render  you  this,  the  first  act  of  homage  due  to  you  as  Grand 
Master. 

The  Grand  Master  having  been  covered  on  taking  the  chair,  the 
Installing  Officer  uncovers  and  bows. 

Ins.  Off.  I  now  hail,  salute,  and  proclaim  you  Grand  Master  of 
Masons  of  the  State  of  North  Carolina !  Brethren,  behold  your  Grand 
Master ! 

Senior  Grand  Warden:     Brethren,  behold  our  Grand  Master! 

Junior  Grand  Warden:     Brethren,  behold  our  Grand  Master! 

The  brethren,  with  their  arms  crossed  *  *  *  *  and  then  all, 
under  the  direction  of  the  Installing  Officer,  salute  with  the  public 
grand  honors. 

The  retiring  Grand  Master  may  then  address  his  newly  installed 
successor  and  brethren,  and  the  Grand  Master  may,  if  he  chooses,  also 
address  the  Grand  Lodge.  If  he  does  not  wish  to  do  so  he  may  call 
down,  and  the  brethren  remain  seated  during  the  remainder  of  the  in- 


Installation  of  Grand  Officers.  115 

stallation,  except  "when  called  up  during  the  obligations.  It  will  be 
proper  for  the  Grand  Master  here  to  announce  the  names  of  the  ap- 
pointed officers  that  they  may  be  installed  with  the  rest. 

In  the  case  of  the  re-election  of  a  Grand  Master  the  preceding  cere 
mony  will  be  omitted,  except  that  he  he  conducted  near  the  chair,  the 
charge  given  him,  invested  with  the  jewel  and  gavel,  inducted  and 
saluted  as  above  directed,  so  in  the  case  of  any  other  officer  being  re- 
elected, he  will  be  invested,  and  given  the  charge  only.  The  Grand 
Master  then  proceeds  with  the  installation  of  the  remaining  officers, 
or  he  may  place  the  Installing  officer  again  in  the  chair,  delivering 
him,  without  ceremony,  the  gavel  and  jewel. 

Ins.  Off.  Grand  Marshal,  will  you  now  present  the  Deputy  Grand 
Master  elect,  (or  appointed)  for  installation. 

Grand  Marshal.  Most  Worshipful:  I  have  the  pleasure  to  pre- 
sent to   you   for   installation,    Brother   ,  who    has   been   duly 

elected  (or  apjoointed)  to  the  office  of  Deputy  Grand  Master. 

The  foregoing  address  of  the  Installing  Officer,  and  presentation  by 
the  Grand  Master,  may  be  used  for  all  the  remaining  officers,  simply 
changing  the  name  and  title  of  the  officer.  It  may,  also,  be  used  for 
the  Grand  Marshal,  when  re-elected.  The  order  of  the  Installing  Of- 
ficer, next  following,  will  be  omitted  wheu  the  officer  to  be  installed 
has  been  re-elected. 

Ins.  Off.  Grand  Marshal,  you  will  conduct  our  brother  to  the 
altar  to  take  upon  himself  the  obligation  appertaining  to  the  duties 
of  his  office. 

The  Grand  Marshal  conducts  him  to  the  altar,  when  he  kneels,  and 
is  attended  by  the  Grand  Deacons,  as  in  the  case  of  the  Grand  Mas- 
ter, and  takes  the  same  obligation,  with  the  change  of  name  and  de- 
signation of  office. 

Ins.  Off.  Right  Worshipful  Brother,  you  have  not  been  an  inat- 
tentive observer  of  the  ceremony  of  installing  the  Most  Worshipful 
Grand  Master,  for  you  are  aware  that,  in  case  of  his  incapacity  to  act 
in  contingencies  mentioned  in  our  constitutions,  you  succeed  to  his 
duties  and  prerogatives,  as  you  do,  also,  when  acting  as  his  substitute 
in  any  matters  specially  delegated  to  you.  Your  office,  therefore,  is 
one  of  great  dignity  and  importance,  and  it  was  in  view  of  these  con- 
siderations that  our  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master  selected  you  to 
fill  it.  Treasure  up,  therefore,  the  suggestions  made  to  the  Most 
Worshipful  Grand  Master,  for  you  know  not  how  soon  they  may  have 
a  personal  application  to  you ;  and  remember  also,  that  usage,  as  well 
as  our  particular  regulations,  has  placed  you  in  the  most  intimate 
and  confidential  relations  to  him,  as  supporter  and  counsellor.     I  now. 


116  Installation  of  Grand  Officers- 

with  pleasure,  proceed  to  invest  you  with  your  jewel  of  office  (gives 
it,)  and  proclaim  you  Deputy  Grand  Master  of  Masons  of  the  State  of 
North  Carolina.  You  will  now  be  seated  in  your  place,  which  is  at 
the  right  hand  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master. 

Before  lie  is  seated  the  Installing  Officer  calls  up  the  Grand  Lodge 
and  the  Deputy  Grand  Master  is  saluted  with  the  grand  honors 

The  others  of  the  first  six  elective  Grand  Officers  are  presented  in 
like  manner  as  the  Deputy  Grand  Master,  but  without  being  saluted 
with  the  grand  honors,  the  Wardens  taking  the  same  obligation.  The 
charges  to  the  remainiae  officers  installed  are  as  follows: 


To  the  Senior  Grand  Warden. 

Right  Worshipful  Brother,  the  position  which  you  occupy  in  the  Grand 
Lodge,  and  among  the  fraternity,  is  one  of  no  little  importance.  In 
the  Grand  Lodge,  to  control  practically  the  admission  of  all  visitors, 
to  announce  specially  thoce  who  are  of  rank  or  eminence,  and  to  aid 
in  the  preservation  of  order,  and  at  all  times  to  render  counsel  and 
advice  to  the  Grand  Master,  are  high  and  responsible  duties,  requiring 
circumspection,  vigilence  and  reflection;  but  when  to  these  is  super- 
added the  more  onerous  labor,  in  conjunction  with  the  Junior  Grand 
Warden,  of  diligently  preserving  the  ancient  landmarks  throughout 
the  jurisdiction,  it  then  becomes  a  trust  of  deep  moment  to  the  wel- 
fare of  the  craft.  Your  fitness  for  the  discharge  of  such  a  trust  un- 
doubtedly led  to  your  selection  for  the  office  by  your  brethren,  and  it 
will  be  your  duty  and  pleasure  so  to  act  as  to  justify  their  confidence. 
In  investing  you  with  the  jewel  of  your  office,  and  directing  you  to 
the  place  of  your  immediate  official  action  in  the  West,  I  am  perform- 
ing a  grateful  duty. 

To  the  Junior  Grand  Warden. 

Right  Worshipful  Brother,  as  the  duties  of  your  office  and  the  qualifi- 
cations for  it  are  almost  identical  with  those  of  the  Senior  Grand 
Warden,  except  as  it  respects  the  introduction  of  visitors,  I  will  only 
add  to  the  charge  given  to  that  officer,  that  you  be  equally  vigilant 
and  circumspect,  not  only  at  your  station  in  the  Grand  Lodge,  but  in 
the  broader  field  of  action  without,  dividing  with  him  his  labors  and 
taking  due  care  that  the  great  object  of  your  united  solicitude  shall 
remain  inviolate.  Accept  the  jewel  of  your  office,  and  repair  to  the 
South,  being  ever  watchful,  whether  in  labor,  or  at  refreshment,  that 
the  liigli-ticehe  of  observation  does  not  find  you  with  your  work,  and 
that  of  the  Craft  you  superintend,  unperformed. 


Installation  of  Grand  Officers.  117 

To  the  Grand  Treasurer, 

Plight  Worshipful  Brother,  in  intrusting  you  with  the  books  and  funds 
■of  the  Grand  Lodge,  as  appertaining  to  your  office,  I  am  but  their  or- 
gan in  placing  them  in  your  possession,  as  one  well  qualified  to  keep 
and  manage  them,  as  your  past  integrity,  accuracy  and  prompt  busi- 
ness habits  testify,  an  appreciation  of  which  has  been  evinced  by  their 
choice  of  you  as  G land  Treasurer.  The  keys  forming  the  jewel  of 
your  cifice  have  a  two-fold  significar-ce.  They  are  instruments  to  bind 
as  well  as  to  loose;  to  make  fast  as  well  as  to  open.  They  will  never, 
I  am  confident,  be  used  by  you  in  any  other  manner  than  the  consti- 
tution r.r.d  laws,  rules  and  regulations  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  shall 
direct. 

To  the  Grand    Secretary. 

Right  Worshipful  Brother,  usage,  as  well  as  positive  enactments  from 
time  to  time,  has  rendered  the  duties  of  the  office  of  Grand  Secretary 
more  onerous  and  varied  than  that  of  any  other  officer.  Brought  by 
his  official  position  more  immediately  into  communication  with  the 
whole  body  of  the  fraternity,  it  is  requisite  that  be  should  possess 
ability,  skill  ar.d  industry  to  meet  the  various  demands  upon  him. 
Placed  in  a  position  where  he  holds  almost  constant  correspondence 
with  our  Masonic  brethren  in  every  State  and  country,  upon  him  de- 
volve, in  a  large  degree,  the  good  name  and  credit  of  the  Masonic 
family  of  this  State  The  fraternity  should  enable  him  to  maintain 
it ;  he  should  strive  that  it  be  maintained  Courtesy  and  patience  are 
to  be  elements  in  his  manners  and  character.  Vigilance  and  fidelity 
must,  also,  be  necessary  qualities.  Our  constitutions,  my  brotber, 
point  out  to  you  fully  the  duties  of  your  office,  and  1  will  not  recapit- 
ulate them.  Your  capability  for  their  prompt  and  faithful  execution 
has  induced  your  brethren  to  confide  this  trust  to  you,  and  I  feel  as- 
sured that  it  is  well  placed.  In  investing  you  with  your  official  jewel, 
the  pens,  I  am  persuaded  that  they  will  make  an  endearing  record, 
not  only  to  your  praise,  but  to  the  welfare  of  a  craft  so  largely  depen- 
dent upon  your  experience  and  integrity. 

To  the  Grand    Chaplain. 

Reverend  and  Worshipful  Brother,  that  Holy  Book,  which  is  the 
chart  and  text-book  of  your  sacred  calling,  is  also  the  great  light  of 
Masonry,  and  forever  sheds  its  benignant  rays  upon  every  lawful  assem- 
blage of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons.  Teach  us  from  its  life-giving 
precepts ;  intercede  for  us  with  that  Divine  majesty  which  it  so  fully 
reveals  and  unfolds  to  us;  and  warn  us  by  its  lessons  of  infinite  wis- 
dom and  truth,  and  you  will  have  faithfully  performed  your  sacred 
10 


118  Installation  of  Grand  Ofji'cer-s,- 

functions,  and  fulfilled  your  important  trust.  It  is  titling  that  am 
emblem  of  the  sacred  volume  should  be  the  jewel  of  your  office,  with, 
which  I  now  invest  you. 

To    the  Grand    Lecturer. 

Brother,  the  care  and  preservation  of  our  ancient  ritual,  and  the- 
perpetuation  of  the  time-honored  landmarks  embraced  in  it,  and 
which  may  not  be  written,  devolve  upon  you,  and  as  that  ritual  has 
enshrined  within  it,  in  symbol  and  allegory,  certain  great  and  essen- 
tial moral  truths,  yon  should  be  as  perfect  in  the  symbolism  as  in  the 
mere  formula  of  language  which  teaches  us  how  our  rites  are  to  be 
administered.  As  Grand  Lecturer,  also,  you  should  be  master  of  the 
ceremonial  observances  of  the  fraternity,  and  give  instructions  in  the 
manner  of  rendering  them  most  striking  and  effective.  You  are  the 
preceptor  of  the  fraternity,  and  your  deportment  should  be  consistent 
with  the  nature  of  your  office-work.  For  upon  your  teachings  depend 
not  only  the  uniformity  and  perpetuity,  but  the  character  and  impres- 
siveness  of  our  rites,  and  they  should  be  imparted,  both  by  oral  com- 
munication and  example.  On  no  point  are  the  craft  so  punctilious 
and  exacting  as  upon  the  beauty  and  accuracy  of  the  work  and  lec- 
tures; hence,  many  eyes  will  be  upon  you.  A  courteous  manner,  an 
unwearied  patience  and  a  diligent  application,  are  requisites  for  your 
place,  and  no  rash  or  innovating  hand  will  be  tolerated  in  your  depart 
ment  of  labor. 

In  installing  you  into  office  and  p;esenting  your  jewel,  I  am  happy 
to  be  enabled  to  say  that  your  established  skill  and  learning,  and  your 
ability  to  undergo  the  constitutional  tests,  have  proved  you  to  be  a 
Master  workman-. 

To  the  Grand  Deacons. 
Brothers,  as  messengers  of  the  Grand  Officers,  and  as  useful  assis- 
tants in  our  ceremonies,  your  respective  official  positions  are  of  great 
value  and  importance  to  the  comfort  and  good  order  of  the  Grand 
Lodge.  Vigilance  and  zeal  are  necessary  requisites  of  your  offices, 
and  we  know  that  you  possess  them.  As  Senior  and  Junior  Grand 
Deacons  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  you  are  now  invested  with  the  jewels 
of  office,  together  with  these  rods  as  tokens  of  your  authority. 

To  the  Grand  Marshal. 
Brother,  the  duties  of  your  office  require  energy,  activity  and  quick- 
ness of  perception.     The  good  order  of  the  fraternity,  in  its  general 
assemblies  and  processions,  depends  upon  your  care,  skill,  and  assi- 


Installation  of  Grand  Officers-  129 

duity.  Possessing  these  qualifications,  you  have  been  appointed 
Grand  Marshal,  and  I  now  with  pleasure,  instal  you  into  office,  an:l 
invest  you  with  your  appropriate  jewel.  It  denotes  command,  as  the 
•organ  of  the  Grand  Master,  ami  you  will  be  near  at  hand  to  execute 
his  orders. 

To  the  Grand   Sword  Bearer. 

Brother,  the  sword  which  you  bear  is  the  time  honored  symbol  of 
Justice  and  authority.  It  reminds  the  beholder  of  the  dignity  of  the 
hotly  whose  emblem  it  is.  It  is.  also,  the  guardian  and  protector  of 
the  standard  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  Be  ever  faithful  to  your  tru^t. 
Let  this  jewel  of  your  office  remind  you  of  its  nature. 

To  the  Grand  Pursuivant. 

Brother,  you  are  to  act  as  the  messenger  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and 
the  herald  to  announce  the  approach  of  visitors  and  strangers.  In  so 
doing,  possess  yourself  of  the  necessary  information  and  announce 
their  rank  and  position  properly,  and  exercise  a.  Bound  discretion,  so 
as  not  to  interfere  with  its  labors  Be  cautious  and  vigilant,  that  no 
improper  person  may  gain  admittance.  You,  also,  have  in  your  keep- 
ing the  clothing  and  jewels  of  the  Grand  officers,  which  you  should 
be  careful  to  keep  in  a  good  condition,  and  neatly  and  orderly  ar- 
ranged for  use  at  all  times.  Receive  your  emblem  of  office  and  repair 
to  your  station  inside  the  door. 

To  the  Grand  Standard  Bearer. 

Brother,  your  duty  is  to  carry  and  uphold  the  banner  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  on  occasions  of  ceremony  and  public  procession.  The  emblems 
upon  it  are  as  ancient  as  the  inarch  of  the  children  of  Israel  from 
bondage,  and  the  ark  is  the  symbol  of  hope  and  safety.  Bear  them 
well  aloft,  for  the  world,  as  well  as  the  craft,  ever  honors  them.  Re- 
ceive the  jewel  of  your  office,  and  let  it  remind  you  that  you  are  never 
to  part  with  that  standard,  when  under  your  care,  while  you  have  life 
to  defend  it. 

To  the  Grand  Stewards. 
Brothers,  in  olden  times  your  province  was  to  superintend  and  pro^ 
vide  for  the  festivals  of  the  craft,  and  that  duty  still  remains  to  you, 
although  there  is  rarely  occasion  for  its  exercise.  But  we  are  taught 
that  "it  is  better  to  go  to  the  house  of  mourning  than  to  the  house  of 
feasting,"  and  hence  in  you  has  been  appropriately  imposed  the  dis- 
pensation of  our  beneficent  charities.     That  it  is  a  grateful  duty  all 


120  Installation  of  Grand  Officers* 

hearts  testify,  and  we  know  that  yours  most  fully  responds  to  it.     Re- 
ceive the  jewels  of  your  office,  together  with  the  white  rods. 

To  the  Grand  Tiler. 

Brother,  the  importance  of  the  duties  of  your  place  cannot  be  over- 
rated. Care  and  watchfulness  are  indispensably  requisite,  and  in  all. 
cases,  unless  thoroughly  satisfied  with  the  character  and  identity  of 
those  desiring  admittance,  let  your  doubts  prevail.  Ours  is  a  sanc- 
tuary, intrusted  to  you  faithfully  and  vigilantly  to  guard,  and  you 
have  always  at  hand  the  means  of  being  fully  satisfied.  Irreparable 
injury  might  result  from  a  negligent  or  careless  discharge  of  your 
duty.  Your  station  is  ever  outside  the  door,  to  which  you  will 
now  repair  with  this  jewel,  and,  also,  with  this  implement  of  your 
office  (giving  a  sword). 

The  several  officers  now  being  duly  installed,  the  Installing  Officer 
will  retire,  after  surrendering  the  jewel  and  gavel  to  the  Grand  Mas- 
ter. It  will  be  proper  and  expedient  before  doing  so,  to  have  an  ap- 
propriate ode  or  piece  of  music  sung. 

Grand  Master.  Grand  Marshal,  I  now  declare  the  several  officers 
of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  North  Carolina 
duly  installed  into  office,  for  the  ensuing  year,  in  ample  form.  You 
will  cause  proclamation  to  be  made  in  the  South,  West  and  East. 

Ths  Junior  Grand  Deacon  proclaims  in  the  South,  the  Senior  Grand 
Deacon  in  the  West,  and  the  Grand  Marshal  in  the  Eastr  each  as  fob 
lows,  the  Grand  Lodge  being  called  up; 

By  order  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master,  and  by  authority 
of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons 
of  the  State  of  North  Carolina,  I  proclaim  that  its  Grand  Officers  are 
now  duly  installed  in  ample  form.     So  mote  it  be! 

The  Grand  Lodo-e  is  called  down. 


FORMS 


No.  i.  —  Petition  for  a  Dispensation. 

To  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master  of  Ancient 

Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  North  Carolina: 

The  Undersigned  Petitioners  being  Free  and  Accepted  Master  Masons 
iu  good  standing,  having  the  prosperity  of  the  Fraternity  at  heart, 
and  willing  to  exert  their  best  endeavors  to  promote  and  diffuse  the 
genuine  principles  of  Freemasonry,  and  for  the  convenience  of  their 
respective  dwellings;  and  other  good  reasons,  respectfully  represent : 

That  they  are  desirous  of  forming  a   new  Lodge   at   ,    in   the 

County  of ,   (which  is miles  from  the  nearest  Lodge  in  this 

Grand  jurisdiction,)  to  be  named . 

They,  therefore,  pray  for  a  Dispensation  to  empower  them  to  assem- 
ble as  a  regular  Lodge,  to  discharge  the  duties  of  Masonry  in  a  regu- 
lar and  constitutional  manner,  according  to  the  ancient  forms  of  the 
order  and  the  regulations  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

They  have  nominated,  and  do  recommend  Brother ,  to  be  the 

first  Master,  Brother ,  to  be  the  first   Senior  Warden,  Brother 

to  be  the  first  Junior  Warden,  of  said  Lodge. 

If  the  prayer  of  this  petition  shall  be  granted,  they  promise  a  strict 
conformity  to  the  edicts  of  the  Grand  Master,  and  the  constitution 
and  laws  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

(Signatures.) 

To  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master  of  Ancient 

Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  North  Carolina: 

It  is  hereby  certified  that,  at  a  Communication  of  Lodge 

No.  — ,  held  on  the day  of ,  A.  D.,  18 ,  A.  L.,  58 , 

the  foregoing  petition  was  presented,  and  the  petitioners  were  recom- 
mended to  the  Grand  Master  as  Master  Masons  in  good  standing. 

It  is  further  certified,   that  Brother ,  who  is   recommended  as 

Master,  Brother  • ,  who  is  recommended  as  Senior  Warden,  and 

Brother ,  who  is  recommended   as  Junior  Warden,  of  the  pro- 


122  Forms. 

posed  new  Lodge,  did  appear  in  open  Lodge,  were  duly  examined 
and  exhibited  due  skill  and  proficiency  in  the  ritual  and  laws  of  Ma- 
sonry. 

Witness  our  hands  and  seal  of  the  Lodge,  this  day  of 

,  A,  D.,  18 ,  A.  L.,  58 . 

,  Master. 

■ ,  Secretary. 

Note. — The  petition  must  he  signed  by  at  least  seven  Master  Ma- 
sons in  good  standing,  in  their  own  hand-writing. 

If  the  locality  of  the  proposed  new  Lodge  is  within  ten  miles  of  the 
usual  place  of  meeting  of  a  chartered  Lodge  in  this  Grand  Jurisdic- 
tion, the  special  reasons  for  the  application  for  a  Dispensation,  in  ad- 
dition to  those  mentioned  in  the  petition,  must  be  stated.  See  Arti- 
cle X  of  Constitution,  page  10. 

The  petitioners  must  be  recommended  by  the  chartered  Lodge  in 
this  Grand  Jurisdiction,  nearest  the  place  designated  for  the  meetings 
of  the  proposed  Lodge.  See  Article  VI  of  By-Laws  of  Grand  Lodge, 
Section  1. 

If  the  petitioners  are  members  of  Lodges,  their  dimits   must  be  ob- 
tained and  forwarded  with  the  petition.     If  any  of  them  are  not  mem 
hers  of  Lodges  certificates  must  Lie  furnished.     The  following  provis- 
ion of  law  should  be  observed.     Sec.  2,    of   Article    VI  of   By-Laws, 
page  22: 

The  Dimits  of  petitioners  for  a  Dispensition  for  a  new  Lodge  must 
accompany  the  petition.  When  a  Lodge  has  forfeited  its  charter  and 
sent  its  records  to  the  Grand  Secretary,  the  former  members  of  such 
Lodge,  before  uniting  with  another  Lodge,  or  petitioning  for  a  Dis- 
pensation for  a  new  Lodge,  shall  be  provided  by  the  Grand  Secretary 
with  a  certificate  of  their  having  formerly  belonged  to  such  Lodge, 
on  receipt,  by  him,  of  all  dues  shown  by  such  records  to  be  owing  by 
them  to  their  former  Lodge. 

Ten  dollars  must  accompany  the  petition,  that  being  the  amount 
required  by  Section  1,  Article  VI  of  By-Laws,  for  a  Dispensation. 

Sec.  3.  of  Article  VI  of  By-Laws,  requiring  the  skill  and  proficiency 
of  the  Master  and  Wardens  of  the  proposed  Lodge,  should  be  strictly 
complied  with. 

Article  X  of  the  Constitution,  and  Article  VI  of  the  By-Laws  relate 
to  the  establishment  of  Lodges  and  special  attention  is  directed  to 
them. 


No.  2. — Petition  for  a  Charter. 

To  the  Most  'Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  North  Carolina: 

The  subscribers  respectfully  represent  that,  on  the day  of , 

A.  D.  18 ,  A.  L.  58 ,  a  Dispensation  was  issued  by  the  Grand 

Master  for  the  establishment  of  a  new  Lodge   of  Ancient  Free  and 


Forms.  123 

Accepted  Masons  at  ,  in  the  County  of ,  by  the  name  of 

Lodge,  and  that  said  Lodge  has   worked   regularly   since  that 

time,  as  appears  from  the  transcript   of   its  records,    by-laws  and   re- 
turns, herewith  presented. 

They  pray  that  a  charter  be  granted   to   the  said   Lodge,   with   the 

following  officers,  to  wit:     Brother ,    Master-,  Brother  , 

Senior  Warden  ;•  and  Brother ,    Junior  Warden  ;  promising,   as 

heretofore,  a  strict  conformity  to  the  edicts  of  the  Grand  Master,  and 
Constitution  and  laws  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 

Given  under  our  hands  on  this,  the day  of ,  A. 

D.  18 ,  A   L.  58- . 

(Signatures.) 

[The  foregoing  petition  must  be  signed  by  at  least  seven   members 
of  the  Lodge  in  their  own  hand  writing.  J 


No.  3. — Petition  for   Degrees. 

To  the  Master,  Wardens  and  Members  of Lodge, 

No.  — ,  A.  F.  &  A.  M.  : 

The  petition  of ,    respectfully   showeth  that  he  entertains  a 

favorable  opinion  of  your  aucient  institution,  and  desires  to  be  made 
a  member  thereof.  If  this,  his  petition,  be  granted,  he  will  yield  a 
cheerful  obedience  to  the  usages  and  customs  of  Masonry.     His  age 

is years;  his  vocation  that  of  a  ,  and  his  residence, 

Date,  .  (Signature,) . 

Recommended  by 


No.  4.  —  Petition  for  Membership. 

To  the  Master,   Wardens  and  Brethren  of Lodge, 

No.  — ,  A.  F.  &  A.  M.: 

The  petition. of respectfully  showeth  that   he  was  lately  a 

member  of Lodge,  No.  ,  at ;  and  he  now  prays  to 


124  Forms. 

be  admitted  a  member  of  your  Lodge.     His  age  is  years;  his  vo- 
cation that  of  a ,  and  his  residence, . 

(Signed.) . 

Recommended  by 


Note. — A  petition  for  membership  rnuet  be  accompanied  by  the  ap- 
plicant's dimat. 


No.  5. — Application  for  a  Dimit. 

To  the  Master,   Wardens  and  Brethren  of Lodge,  No.  — . 

The  undersigned  respectfully  prays  to  withdraw  from  the  member- 
ship of  your  Lodge,  and  asks  for  a  certificate  to  that  effect.  His  mo- 
tive for  this  request  is . 

"Note. — This  application  must  be  accompanied  by  a  certificate  from 
the  Secretary  of  the  payment  of  all  dues  of  the  applicant. 


No.  6.  — Form  of  Dimit. 
MASTER   MASON'S    CERTIFICATE. 

To  all  Master  Masons,  to  ichom  these  presents  shall  come — Greeting: 

This  is  to  Certify,   That  Brother is,  at  the  date  of  these 

presents,  a  Master  Mason,  in  good  and  regular  standing,  and  that  hav- 
ing paid  all  dues,  and  being  free  from  all   charges,   he  is  at  his  own 

request,  by  the  vote  of  the  Lodge,  Dismissed  from  Membership  in 

Lodge,  No.  — ,  under  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  North 
Carolina. 

Given  under  my  hand  and  the  seal  of  the  Lodge,  at , 

this day  of ,  A.  D.  18 ,  A.  L.  58 . 

• ,  Secretary. 


Forms.  125 

No.  7.  —  Petition  for   Restoration. 

To  the  Master,   Wardens  and  Members  of Lodge,  No.  — , 

A.  F.  &A.  31.: 

The  undersigned  petitioner  respectfully  represents  that  he  was 

by  your  Lodge  on  the day  of ,  A.  D.  18 ,  A.  L.  58 , 

upon  the  charge  of . 

He  now  most  respectfully  prays  to  be  restored  to  his  former  Ma- 
sonic rights  and  privileges,  and    re-admitted    to  membership    in    the 

Lodge,  (1)  for  reasons  following  (2) ,  and  promises,  if  restored, 

to  strictly  comply  with  the  laws  and  regulations  of  the    Lodge  and  of 
the  Grand  Lodge. 

Very  respectfully, 

A-  B— . 

(1)  If  the  petitioner  was  a  member  of  some  Lodge,  other  than  the 
one  by  which  he  was  suspended  or  expelled,  the  words  "  aud  re-ad- 
mitted to  membership  in  the  Lodge,"  will  be  omitted. 

(2)  The  reasons  should  be  clearly  stated,  and  may  embrace  the  ex- 
pression of  reformation,  penitence,  &c. 

The  petition  must  be  presented  at  a  regular  Communication  and 
lie  over  one  month;  when  it  is  to  be  acted  upon  the  members  of  the 
Lodge  should  be  summoned   to  attend. 

It  requires  a  unanimous  ballot  of  members  present  to  restore. 


No.  8.  — Certificate  for  Widow  or  Orphans  of  a  Deceased  Mason, 

To  all  to  whom  these  presents  may  come — Greeting: 

Know  Ye,   That ,  whose  name  is  written  in  the  margin,  is  the 

of  our  late  beloved  brother, who  Departed  this  Life,  ■ ■ 

and  who  was  at  the  time  of  his  death,  a  member,  in  full  and  regular. 

standing,  of Lodge,    No.  — ,   of  Ancient  Free  and  Accepted 

Masons;  which  said  Lodge  was,  at  the  time  of  his  death,  and  still  is, 
working  under  a  Charter  from  the  Grand    Lodge  of   North  Carolina. 

We  would,  therefore,  most  affectionately  commend to  the  kindest 

offices  of  the  Masonic  Brotherhood  everywhere. 

Issued  the day  of  ,  A.  D.  18 ,  A.  L.  58 . 

■ ,   IF.  31. 

Attest : ,  Secretary, 


17 


126  Forms. 

No.  g.  —  Notice  of  Suspension  or  Expulsion. 

Office  of  Secretary  of  — —  Lodge,  No.  — ,  F.  \  A.-.  M.\, 

, ,  A   L.  58 ,  A   D.  18 . 

To  the  Grand  Secretary  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  North  Carolina: 

It  is  hereby  certified,  that,  at  a  special  communication  of Lodge,. 

No.  — .  held  on  the  day  of ,  A   D.  18 ,  (1)  Mas- 
ter Mason,  and  member  of   (2)  this  Lodge,  was   from   all  the 

rights  and  privileges  of  Masonry,  for  (3)  

In  testimony  whereof,  I  hereunto  affix   my  official   signature 

and  the  seal  of  the  Lodge,  on  this day  of 

A.  D.  18 -. 

■ ■ ,  Secretary. 

(1)  If  the  party  be  not  a  Master  Mason  erase  these  words  and  insert 
Entered  Apprentice  or  Fellow  Craft,  as  the  case  may  be. 

(2)  If  the  party  be  non-affiliated  erase  the  word  this  and   insert  the 
word  no. 

(3)  In  this  blank  the  offense  should  be  stated,  (if  propriety  admits), 
so  as  to  conform  to  the  law  of  the  Grand  Lodije. 


No.  io.  —  Notice  of   Restoration. 

Office  of  Secretary  of Lodge,  No.  — ,  F.\  A.-.  M.  \, 

,  ,  A.  L.  58 ,  A.  D.  18- . 

To  the  Grand  Secretary  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  North  Carolina: 

It  is  hereby  certified,  that,  at  a  (1)  communication    of 

Lodge,  No.  — ,  held  on  the  day  of ,  A  D.  18 ,  Brother 

,  a  (2)  Master  Mason,  was  restored  to  all  the  rights  and  privi- 
leges of  Masonry  and  re-admitted  to  membership  in  this  Lodge. 

In  testimony  whereof  I  hereunto  affix  my  official  signature 

and  the  seal  of  the  Lodge,  on  this day  of , 

A.  D.  18 . 

,  Secretary. 

(1)  Insert  regular  or  special,  as  the  case  may  be. 

(2)  If  the  brother  be  not  a  Master  Mason,  insert  Entered  Apprentice 
or  Fellow  Craft,  as  the  case  may  be. 


Forms.  127 

No.  ii. — Notice  of  Restoration— Non-Affiliated  Mason. 

Office  of  Secretary  of Lodge,  No.  — ,  F.\  A.-.  M. "., 

,  ,  A.  L.  58 ,  A.  D.  18 . 

To  the  Grand  Secretary  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  North  Carolina: 

It  is  hereby  certified.   That  at  a  (1) communication  of 

Lodge,  No    — ,  held  on  the  day  of  ,  A.    D.    18 ,  the 

sentence  of ,  rendered  against  Brother ,  a  non- affiliated 

Master  Mason,  on  the  day  of ,  A.  D.  18 ,  was  removed. 

In  testimony  whereof   I  hereunto  affix   my  official  signature 

and  the  seal  of  the  Lodge,  on  this day  of , 

A.  D.  18 . 

— ,  Secretary. 

The  above  certificate  applies  to  non-affiliated  Masons  only. 
(1)  Insert  regular  or  special,  as  the  case  may  be. 


No.  12. — Abstract  of  Proceedings  of  Subordinate  Lodges  in  Trials. 

Transcript  of  the  Proceedings  of Lodge,  No.  — , 

•    in  the  trial  of  Brother 


At  a  regular  Communication  of Lodge,  No.  — ,  held  on  the  — 

day  of ,  18 ,  the  following  charge  and  specifications  were  pre- 
ferred in  writing,  over  the  signature  of against  Brother , 

a  Master  Mason :     (Entered  Apprentice  or  Fellow  Craft,  as  the  case 
may  be.) 

[An  exact  copy  of  the  charge  and  specifications  should  be  inserted.) 

Which  were  read  in  open  Lodge,  and  ordered  to  be  recorded  in  the 
Minutes. 

The  Secretary  was  ordered  to  furnish  the  accused  with  a  copy  of 
the  charge  and  specifications,  and  notify  him  to  appear  and  answer  to 

the  same,  at  a  Special  Communication  to  be  held  on  the day  of 

,  18 . 

{At  least  ten  days'1  notice  must  always  be  gixen  to  the  accused.) 

A  Special  Communication  of Lodge,  No.  — ,  was  held  on  the 

day  of ,  18 :     Present:  ,  W.  M., ,  S.  W., 

,  J.  W.,  &c,  and  the  following  members: 


128  Forms. 

(The  names  of  all  officers  and  menders  present  should  he  given.-) 

The  Lodge  was  opened  on  the  third  degree,  when  the  Worshipful 
Master  stated  the  object  of  the  Communication   to   he,  to  investigate 

the  charge  and  specifications  preferred   against    Brother by 

■ ,  on  the day  of ,  18 . 

It  appearing  to  the  Lodge  that  the  accused  had  been  served  with  a 
copy  of  the  charge  and  specifications  ten  days  previous  to  said  meet- 
ing, and  notified  to  appear  and  answer  to  the  same,  and  he  being 
present,  (If  the  accused  does  not  appear,  although  notified,  the  Lodge  may 
proceed  to  investigate  the  charges  ex  parte.  In  that  case  the  record  should 
state  that,  "  The  accused  not  appearing,  thereupon,  the  Lodge  proceeded  to 
investigate  the  charges,  ex  parte,  &c.,)  and  announcing  his  readiness 
for  trial,  the  charge  and  specifications  were  read  in  his  presence,  to 
which  he  pleaded  '•  not  guilty.''''  Thereupon  the  Lodge  proceeded  to 
investigate  the  same. 

The  Worshipful  Master  conducted  the  trial  on  the  part  of  the 
Lodge,  (or,  appointed  "brethren,  A.  B.  and  G.  I)  ,  a  committee  on  the  part 
of  the  Lodge,)  and  Brother appeared  for  the  accused. 

Brother was  then  examined,  who  testified  as  follows: 

Question— By  . 

Answer:     . 

(The  evidence,  as  taken  down,  in  questions  and,   ansicers,  should   be   given 

in  full.) 

The  testimony  of  Brother was  then  read  to,  and  approved  by, 

him,  and  ordered  to  be  recorded  in  the  Minutes, 

[The  evidence  of  each  witness  should  be  reported  in  full,  in  the  same  way.) 

(If  witnesses,  who  are  not  Masons,  are  examined,  continue.) 

Mr.  ,  a  non-Mason,  then   being  offered   as   a  witness  by  the 

Master,  (or  committee  on  accused,)  the  Lodge  was  called  from   labor 

to  refreshment,  and  Mr. was  introduced  and  testified  on  honor. 

as  follows : 

(Report  evidence  as  in  other  cases.) 

Mr. having  retired,  the  Lodge  was  called  from  refreshment 

to  labor. 

Neither  party  having  any  further  evidence  to  offer,  Brother 


Forms.  129 

was  heard  in  defence,  for  was  heard  through  his  counsel,)  after  which 
all  who  were  not  members  of  the  Lodge,  together  with  the  accused, 
retired,  and  the  Lodge  proceeded  to  ballot,  with  the  following  result : 

{The  balloting  must  he  in  accordance  with  the  rules  adopted   by  the  Grand 
Lodge  for  the  government  of   Lodges  in  trials.) 

Whereupon,  the  Worshipful  Master  announced  that  Brother , 

the  accused,  was  (give  decision,)  suspended  or  expelled,  &c. 

The  Lodge  having  concluded  the  business  for  which    it  was  called, 
was  then  closed  in  due  form. 

.   W.  M. 

,  Secretary. 


I, ,  Secretary  of Lodge,  No.  — ,  A.  F.  and  A.  M.,  work- 
ing under  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  North  Carolina,  do 
hereby  certify  that  the  foregoing  contains  a  full,  true  and  perfect 
transcript  of  the  proceedings  of  said   Lodge,  in   the   trial    of  Brother 

,  on  the day  of  — ,  18 . 

In  testimony  whereof,  I  have  hereunto  set  my  hand  and  af- 

[seal.]      fixed  the  seal  of  said  Lodge,  this day  of ,  A. 

D.  18 ,  A.  L.,  58 . 

,  Secretary. 


FORMS  OF  PRAYER. 


Prayer  at  Opening  a  Lodge. 

Most  holy  and  glorious  Lord  God,  the  great  Architect  of  the  Uni- 
Yerse,  the  giver  of  all  good  gifts  and  graces:  Thou  hast  promised 
that,  "  where  two  or  three  are  gathered  together  in  thy  name,  thou 
wilt  be  in  the  midst  of  them,  and  bless  them."  In  thy  name  we  as- 
semble, most  humbly  beseeching  thee  to  bless  us  in  all  our  underta- 
kings, that  we  may  know  and  serve  thee  aright,  and  that  all  our  ac- 
tions may  tend  to  thy  glory,  and  to  our  advancement  in  knowledge 
and  virtue.  And  we  beseech  thee,  O  Lord  God,  to  bless  our  present 
assembling,  and  to  illuminate  our  minds,  through  the  intercession  of 
the  Son  of  Righteousness,  that  we  may  walk  in  the  light  of  thy  coun- 
tenance; and  when  the  trials  of  our  probationary  state  are  over,  be 
admitted  into  THE  TEMPLE  "not  made  with  hands,  eternal  in  the 
heavens." 

Response  iy  the  Brethren. — So  mote  it  be.     Amen. 

Prayer  at  Closing  a  Lodge. 

Supreme  Architect  of  the  Universe,  accept  our  humble  praises  for 
the  many  mercies  and  blessings  which  thy  bounty  has  conferred  on 
us,  and  especially  for  this  friendly  and  social  intercourse.  Pardon, 
we  beseech  thee,  whatever  thou  hast  seen  amiss  in  us  since  we  have 
been  together;  and  continue  to  us  thy  presence,  protection,  and 
blessing.  Make  us  sensible  of  the  renewed  obligations  we  are  under 
to  love  thee  sitpremely,  and  to  be  friendly  to  each  other.  May  all  our 
irregular  passions  be  subdued,  and  may  we  daily  increase  in  Faith, 
Hope,  and  Charity ;  but  more  especially  in  that  Charity  which  is  the 
bond  of  peace  and  the  perfection  of  every  virtue.  May  we  so  prac- 
tice thy  precepts,  that,  through  the  merits  of  the  Redeemer,  we  may 
finally  obtain  thy  promises,  and  find  an  entrance  through  the  gates 
into  the  temple  and  city  of  our  God. 

Response. — So  mote  it  be.     Amen. 

Benediction  at  Closing. 

May  the  blessing  of  Heaven  rest  upon  us  and  all  regular  Masons. 
May  brotherly  love  prevail,  and  every  moral  and  social  virtue 
cement  us. 

Response. — So  mote  it  be.     Amen. 


132  Forms  of  Prayer. 

In  addition  to  the  prayer,  it  is  sometimes   customary  to  use  the  fol- 
lowing-: 


Charge  at  Closing. 
Brethren : 

We  are  now  about  to  quit  this  sacred  retreat  of  friendship  and  vir- 
tue, to  mix  again  with  the  world.  Amidst  its  concerns  and  employ- 
ments, forget  not  the  duties  which  you  have  heard  so  frequently  in- 
culcated, and  so  forcibly  recommended  in  this  Lodge  Be  diligent, 
prudent,  temperate,  discreet.  Remember  that,  around  this  altar,  you 
have  promised  to  befriend  and  relieve  every  brother  who  shall  need 
your  assistance.  You  have  promised,  in  the  most  friendly  manner,  to 
remind  him  of  his  errors,  and  aid  a  reformation.  These  generous 
principles  are  to  extend  further.  Every  human  being  has  a  claim 
upon  your  kind  offices.  Do  good  unto  all.  Recommend  it  more 
especially  "to  the  household  of  the  faithful."  Finally,  brethren,  be 
ye  all  of  one  mind;  live  in  peace;  and  may  the  God  of  love  and  peace 
delight  to  dwell  with  and  bless  you. 

Prayer  at  Opening    the  Grand  Lodge. 

Most  holy  and  eternal  God,  author  of  all  life  and  source  of  all  light 
and  love,  we  have  assembled  in  thy  name  and  now  humbly  implore 
thy  presence,  protection  and  favor. 

Let  thine  Infinite  wisdom  direct  us,  thy  servants,  in  the  labors  of 
this  Annual  Communication,  upon  which  wo  are  now  entering,  and 
may  the  Spirit  of  Love  and  Unity  rest  upon,  and  abide  with,  us.  Let 
harmony  characterize  our  deliberations,  so  that  they  may  tend  to  thy 
Glory,  the  welfare  of  our  Order,  and  our  individual  good. 

Let  thy  light  and  truth  extend  to  the  dark  regions  of  the  earth, 
and  thy  Righteousness  abound.  Let  all  people  receive  the  benign 
and  enlightening  influences  of  this  Institution,  and  enjoy  the  blessings 
which  it  bestows. 

May  our  brethren  everywhere  be  under  thy  constant  protection,  and 
their  labors  for  good  be  crowned  with  lasting  and  beneficial  results. 

We  invoke  thy  favor,  especially,  upon  our  Order  in  this  Common- 
wealth. May  prosperity  attend  every  lawful  effort  to  promote  its  ob- 
jects and  extend  its  usefulness,  and  may  peace  and  concord  pervade 
the  entire  brotherhood  so  that  the  principles  of  Masonry  may  be  more 
thoroughly  disseminated  and  practiced.  Accept,  we  beseech  thee, 
these,  our  humble  supplications,  for  the  honor  and  glory  of  thy  most 
holy  name.     Amen. 

Response. — So  mote  it  be.     Amen. 


AN  ACT 


TO  INCORPORATE    THE 


GRAND  LODGE  OF  NORTH  CAROLINA. 


Be  it  enacted  by  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State  of  North  Carolina, 
and  it  is  hereby  enacted  by  the  authority  of  the  same,  That  the  Most  Wor- 
shipful Grand  Master,  the  Eight  Worshipful  Deputy  Grand  Master, 
Wardens  and  Members  who  are  at  present,  or  in  future  may  be  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  North  Carolina,  be  and  they  are  hereby  constituted 
and  declared  to  be  a  body  corporate  under  the  name  and  title  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  North  Carolina,  and  by  such  name  they  shall  have 
perpetual  succession  and  a  common  seal,  and  may  sue  and  be  sued, 
plead  and  be  impleaded,  acquire  and  transfer  property,  and  pass  all 
such  By-Laws  and  Regulations  as  shall  not  be  inconsistent  with  the 
Constitution  or  Laws  of  this  State  or  of  the  United  States,  anything 
to  the  contrary  notwithstanding. 

Read  three  times  and  ratified  in  General  Assembly  the  20th  day  of 
December,  Anno  Domini,  1797. 

BENJAMIN  SMITH, 

S])eaJc£r  of  the  Senate, 
M,  MATTHEWS, 
Speaker  of  the  House  of  Commons. 
A  true  copy : 

J.   GLASGOW,  Secretary  of  State. 


18 


IN  DEX 


Page.  Art.    Sec. 
Accounts  and  Claims — 

committee  on  provided,  (paragraph  4th,) 19  4       8 

Amendments — 

to  constitution,  how  made 11  11 

to  by-laws,  how  made   43  22 

Additions  to  Uniform  Code,  how  made 38  16       9 

Annual  Communications  of  Grand  Lodge — 

when  and  where  held 17  4       1 

quorum 18  4       2 

when  and  how  closed 20  4     10 

(See  Grand  Lodge.) 

Appeals  and  Grievances — 

how  made  and  disposed  of 32  13       8 

proceedings  regulating  appeals   ...  35  14       7 

appeal  from  judgment  of  committee  of  arbitration 

in  Lodges 39  16     21 

Appeal  from  decision  of  Master  of  Lodge   40  17       1 

Assistant  to  Grand  Secretary — 

Grand  Secretary  to  appoint 16  1     19 

Balloting — 

ballot  must  indispensably  be  taken  on  petition 26  10       3 

one  black  ball  rejects 27  10     11 

second  ballot  may  be  ordered 27  10     11 

ballot  not  to  be  disclosed 28  10     11 

ballot  may  be  taken  on  passing,  or  raising 28  10     13 

Burials — 

duty  of  Master  of  Lodge , 39  16     20 

By-Laws  of  Lodges— 

cannot  be  suspended 27  10       7 

additions  to  Uniform  Code,  how  made 38  16       9 

Charity  Fund- 
Lodges  may  establish    36  16       1 


186  Irtdeoc. 

Page.  Art.  Sec, 

Charters  and  Dispensations — 

Grand  Secretary  to  provide 15  1  15 

how  granted 10  10 

committee  on,  (paragraph  1st) 19  4  8 

dispensation,  price  of 22  6  1 

dispensation  to  be   returned 23  6  6 

charter  and  seal  to  be  issued 23  6  6 

duplicate  charter  retains  membership    23  6  9 

forfeiture  and  restoration  of  charters 25  9  I 

Chartered  Lodges — 

how  numbered    ... 23  6  7 

how  constituted 23  6  8 

(See  Lodges.) 

Clandestine  Lodges — 

definition  of .- 37  16  3 

definition  of,  &c ....    38  1G  10 

Committees — 

standing,  in  Grand  Lodge   1819     4  8 

reports  of,  how  made 22  5  11 

on  appeals,  (special) 32  13  8 

of  arbitration  in  Lodges 39  16  21 

Conferring  Degrees,  Work,  &c. 

lectures  appertaining  to  degrees 29  12  1 

uniformity  of  work 29  12  2 

title  of  work... 29  12  3 

solemnity  in 29  12  4 

ceremonies  may  be  arrested 29  12  5 

use  of  cypher  forbidden   .............  30  12  6 

making  masons  at  sight 30  12  7 

Past  Master's  Degree  . . .  ; 30  12  8 

(See  Work.) 

Credentials  — 

of  representatives  to  Grand  Lodge 18  4  6 

committee  on,  appointment  and  duties  of 18  4  7 

committee  on,  report  of 18  4  8 

Cypher  — 

use  of  forbidden ...    30  12  6 

Definite  Suspension — 

grade  of  punishment 30  13  1 

vote  necessary  to  inflict 31  13  4 

restoration  after 36  15  3 


Index.  137 

Page.  Art.    See. 
Degrees  — 

See  Articles  X,  XI.  and  XII. 

Deputy  Grand  Master- 
member  of  Grand  Lodge    5       1  1 

cannot  represent  Lodge  in  Grand   Lodge 5  1  3 

must  lie  a  Past  Master   5       1  3 

appointed  liy  Grand  Master   .....  6       2  4 

obligation  at  installation    7       2  7 

may  grant  dispensations  for  new  Lodges     22       6  1 

may  approve  proceedings  in  removal  of   Lodges  ....  25       8 

Dimits  — 

petitioners  for  Dispensations  to  obtain   22       G  2 

to  accompany  petition  for  membership 27  10  9 

to  be  granted  on  application   41  18  3 

officer  cannot  dimit 38  10  12 

Diplomas  — 

Grand   Secretary  to   provide 17       3  1 

furnished  by  Grand  Lodge 17       3  2 

Dues  of  Members  of  Lodges  — 

Lodges  may  exact   36  16  1 

Lodge  may  provide  for . .  38  16  15 

may  remit  same   38  16  15 

Lodge  cannot  suspend  or  expel  for  non-payment  of 

dues 33  13  9 

Duplica'e  Charter  Retains  Membership 23        6  9 

Exclusion  for  Non-Payment  of  Dues  — 

Lodge  may  exclude  for  non-payment  of  dues 33  13  9 

effect  of 33  13  12 

re-instatement  after  exclusion  ....    ..... 33  13  12 

members  excluded  to  be  stated  in  returns   24       7 

Ex-Parte  Trials  - 

when  held 31  13  4 

when  held 34  14  1 

Expulsion — 

grade  of  punishment 30  13  1 

vote  necessary  for 31  13  4 

notice  of  to  be  sent  to  Grand  Secretary  (para.   1) . .  .  32  13  7 

fee  to  accompany  notice  (paragraph  2)     32  13  7 

Grand  Secretary  to  keep  list  of  expulsions,  (para.  3)  32  13  7 

Grand  Secretary  to  issue  quarterly  circular,  (par.  4)  32  13  7 


138  Index  ■ 

Page.  Art.    Sec. 
Expulsion — 

Grand  Secretary  to  report  cases   to    Grand   Lodge, 

(paragraphs.)     32     13       7 

Fees  for  Degrees  — 

amount  and  ratio  of 28     11       1 

required  in  advance 28     11        2 

application  of  by  Lodges 28     11       3 

no  charge  for  degrees  conferred  by  request   29     11       4 

Fines  — 

Lodge  cannot  impose 33     13       9 

Fiscal  Year  of  Grand  Lodge — 

when  to  expire 24       7 

Foreign  Correspondence  — 

committee  on,  (paragraph  2d) 19       4       8 

duties  of   committee ...  19       4       8 

duties  of   committee 15       1     17 

Funerals  — 

dress  on  occasions  of 39     16     19 

Grand  Chaplains  — 

appointment  of 6 

duties  of 8 

Grand  Deacons — 

members  of  Grand  Lodge   5 

appointment    of  6 

duties  of 8 

Grand   Lecturers — 

appointment  of 6 

duties   of 9 

to   exemplify  work 9 

to  exemplify  work 16 

to  examine  records  of   Lodges   16 

employment  of 29 

Grand  Lodge — 

officers  of,  and  representation  in 5 

proxies,  and  number  of  votes  prescribed 5 

manner  of   voting  in 9 

manner  of  voting  in  and  number  of  votes 18 

proxy  cannot  appoint  proxy 18 

Grand  officers  ineligible  as  representatives  in 5 

who  eligible  to  membership  or  office  in 6 

who  eligible  to  preside  in 6-7 


2 

4 

6 

1 

1 

1 

2 

4 

6 

3 

2 

4 

7 

7 

1 

21 

1 

22 

12 

2 

1 

1 

1 

2 

8 

2 

4 

5 

4 

4 

1 

3 

1 

4 

2 

5 

Index,  139 

Page.  Art.  Sec. 
Grand  Lodge  — 

communications  of,  when   and   how  held 9  8  1 

communications  of  (annual),  when  and  where  held,  17  4  1 

powers  of 10  9  1-2 

quorum     18  4  2 

credentials  of  representatives 18  4  6 

committee  on  credentials    appointment   of   18  4  7 

committee  on  credentials,  acceptance  of  report  of . .  18  4  8 

standing  committees  in    18-19  4  8 

when  and  how  closed . .    20  4  10 

transportation  for  members  of 16  1  18 

revenues  of 16  2  1 

leave  of  absence,  how  obtained 20  4  11 

visitors,    how  admitted   20  4  12 

refreshments  forbidden    20  4  13 

order  of  business 20  5  1 

rules  regulating  business  ........ .    .  20-22  5  1-11 

motion  to  close  inadmissible 21  5  8 

fiscal  year  of 24  7 

Grand  Marshal — 

appointment    of 6  2  4 

duties   of 8  6  2 

Grand  Master — 

must  be  a  Past  Master 5  1  3 

cannot  be  Master  or  Warden  of  a  Subordinate  Lodge  5  1  3 

cannot  represent  a  Lodge  in  Grand   Lodge   5  1  3 

election  of 6  2  1-2 

may  be  installed  by  proxy 6  2  3 

Grand  Officers  and  Lecturers  appointed  by 6  2  4 

vacancies  filled    by ....  6  2  4 

to  wear   jewel 7  2       5 

powers  and  prerogatives  of  ... 7  2  6 

obligation  of,  at  installation    7  2  7 

to  provide  stationery  and  official   seals  .......... .  13  1  3 

to  appoint  Private  Secretary 13  1  4 

expenses  to  be  paid 13  1  5 

portrait  of,  to  be  procured 14  1  10 

address  of,  when  delivered  and  how  disposed  of   ...  19-20  4  9 

how  addressed   when    presiding 21  5  5 

to  approve,  proceedings  in  removal  of  Lodges   24  7 

may  restore  charters  to  Lodges 25  9  1 


140  Index. 

Page.  Art.  Sec. 

to  collect  and  dispose  of  forfeited  property   25  9  2 

cannot  make  masons  at   sight 30  12  7 

correspondence  with  respecting  Jurisprudence,  how 

conducted 39  16  17 

to   appoint  Grand  Representatives 42  21 

Grand  Officers  — 

election  of 13  1  1 

may  be  installed  by  proxy 6  2  3 

appointed  by  Grand  Master . .  G  2  4 

to  wear  appropriate   jewels 7  2  5 

certificate  of  election  or   appointment  furnished    ..  13  1  2 

expenses  to  be  paid   14  1  9 

names  and   signatures   to    be    transmitted    to    other 

Grand    Bodies 15  1  13 

Grand  Pursuivant  — 

appointment  of 6  2  4 

duties  of   9  6  4 

Grand  Secretary — 

member  of  Grand  Lodge 5  1  1 

election  of   8  5  1 

general  duties  of 8  5  2 

salary  and  fees  of 14-15    1  12 

fees  of   17  3  1,2 

to  provide  diplomas 17  3  1 

payment  of  salary  of 14  1  8 

to  procure  (with  Grand  Treasurer)  portraits  of  Grand 

Masters,  &c 14  1  10 

to  transmit  names  and  signatures  of  Grand  Officers 

to  other  Grand  Lodges 15  1  13 

to  make  annual  reports   15  1  14 

postage  allowed    15  1  14 

to  provide  blank  dispensations  and  charters   .......  15  1  15 

to  give  bond 15  1  16 

to  transmit  documents,  &c,  to  committee   on  For- 
eign Correspondence, 15  1  17 

to  secure  transportation  for  members  of  Grand  Lodge  16  1  18 

to  employ  assistant 16  1  19 

to  keep  list  of  susjaended  or  expelled  masons 32  13  7 

to  issue  quarterly  ch-cular  publishing  same 32  13  7 

to  report  suspensions  and  expulsions  to  Grand  Lodge  32  13  7 

to  issue  quarterly  circular  announcing  restorations. .  36  15  4 

to  publish  and  distribute  proceedings  of  Grand  Lodge  41-42  20  1 


Index.  141 

Page.  Art.    Sec. 
Grand  Steward  — 

appointment  of ..... , 6  2  4 

duties  of 9  6  5 

Grand  Sword   Bearer  — 

appointment    of 6  2  4 

duties  of 9  6  4 

Grand  Tiler- 
appointment  of   G  2  4 

duties  of 9  6  5 

compensation  of 16  1  20 

Grand  Treasurer — 

member  of   Grand  Lodge 5  1  1 

election  of  ... , 7  4  1 

general  duties  of . .    .  8  4  2 

to  furnish  statement  of  accounts 13-14    1  G 

to  give  bond   14  1  7 

to  pay  Grand  Secretary's  salary 14  1  8 

to  pay  expenses  of  Grand  Officers 14  1  9 

to  procure  (with  Grand  Secretary)  portraits  of  Grand 

Masters,  &c 14  1  10 

compensation  of 14  1  11 

Grand  Wardens — 

members  of  Grand  Lodge   5  1  1 

must  be  a  Past  Master 5  1  3 

cannot  be  Master  or  Warden  of  a  Subordinate  Lodge  5  13 

cannot  represent  a  Lodge  in  Grand  Lodge 5  1  3 

obligation  at  installation   7  2  7 

election  of   7  3 

Grievances  — 

how  made  and   disposed   of 32  13  8 

Indefinite  Suspension- 
grade  of  punishment 30  13  1 

vote  necessary  to  inflict 31  13  4 

vote  necessary  to  restore  after 30  15  1 

Installation  of  Grand  Officers- 
may  be  installed  by  proxy 6  2  3 

obligation  of  officers  at   installation 7  2  7 

Installation  of  Officers  of  Lodges — 

may  be  installed  by  proxy 38  1G  13 

Installed    Officer   Cannot  Resign 38  1G  14 

19 


1M  Index. 

Page.  Art.  Sea 

Intoxicating   Liquors — 

introduction,  or  use  of,  in  Lodges,,  forbidden   37  16  8; 

Jewels — 

to  be  worn  by  Grand  Officers 7  2  5- 

to  be  worn  by  Lodge  officers  ........... 39  10  18' 

Jurisdiction  of  Lodges  — 

not  possessed  by  Lodges,  IT.  D, 23  G  5 

material  jurisdiction  of 27  10  6 

penal  jurisdiction  of 30  13  1 

Jurisprudence  — 

committee  on,  (paragraph  5th),  duties  of 19  4  8 

motions,  &c  ,  on  to  lie  over 21  5  4 

correspondence  with  Grand  Master   concerning....  39  16  17 

Lawful  Information 40  16  23 

Leave  of  Absence  from  Grand  Lodge  — 

how   obtained 20  4  11 

Library  of  Grand  Lodge  - 

Grand  Secretary  to  provide. 15  1  17 

Lodges — Establishment  of — 

how   established 10  10 

dispensations  issued  for 22  6  1 

petitions  for  Dispensations  to  obtain  diniits,  &c   .. .  22  6  2 

skill  and  proficiency  of  officers  to  be  certified 22  6  3 

naming  Lodges 23  6  4 

dispensation  to  be  returned 23  6  6 

charter  and  seal  to  be  issued 23  6  6 

chartered  Lodges,  how  numbered 23  6  7 

chartered  Lodges,  how  constituted 23  6  8 

Lodges — Government  of — 

communications — powers — quorum     36  16  1 

maj  exact  dues  36  16  1 

may  remit  dues 38  16  15 

establish  charity  fund 36  16  1 

regular  and  special  communications  provided  for..  37  16  2 

"  Regular  (Legal)  Lodges,"  how  convened 37  16  3 

special  communications,  business  of  restricted 37  16  4 

business  (regular)  of  Lodges  transacted  in  Master's 

Degree 37  16  5 

dispensation  or  charter  to  be  present 37  16  6 

decorum  in  Lodges 37  16  7 

intoxicating  drinks  forbidden  in   Lodges  .........  37  16  8 


Index.  I4S 

Page.  Art.  Sec. 

Lodges  -Government  of— 

by-laws  of  Lodges,  (additions  to  Uniform  Code)    ...  38  16  9 

election  and  installation  of  officers   38  16  11 

Master  must  have   been  a  Warden 38  16  12 

officers  may  be  in  tailed  by  proxy 38  16  13 

installed  officer  cannot  resign 38  16  14 

reading  and  approval  of  minutes   38  39  16  16 

legal  communications   from   Lodges,  how  made...  39  16  17 

regalia  and  dress  on  public  occasions  ....    39  16  18 

dress  at  Funerals    39  16  19 

burials,  (duty   of   Master) 39  16  20 

committee  of  arbitration  in  controversies 39  16  21 

visitation    in    Lodges 39-40  16  22 

lawful    information 40  16  23 

Lodges  — Miscellaneous  Laws  Respecting — 

duplicate  charter  retains  membership 23  6  9 

removal    of,  proceedings    in 24-25    8 

forfeiture  and  restoration  of  charters 25  9  1 

forfeited    property,  how  secured   25  9  2 

clandestine  Lodges   .....    37  16  3 

clandestine   Lodges 38  16  10 

Lodges  Under  Dispensation  — 

powers    of   .....  23  6  5 

powers  not  possessed  by    ... 23  6  5 

how  to  obtain^    charter 23  6  6 

Making  Masons  At  Sight  — 

forbidden  by  Grand   Lodge   30  12  7 

Master  of  Lodge  — 

must  have  been  a  Warden   ;    ...  38  16  12 

duty  of  on  death  of  Master  Mason   39  16  20 

appeals  from,  and  reversal   of,  decisions 40  17  1 

how  dealt  with 40  17  2 

duties  of  in  proceedings  relating  to  removal  of  Lodges  24-25    8 

proposed  Master  of  a  new  Lodge  to  be  examined,  &c.  22  6  3 

should  take  cognizance  of  disobedience  of  summons  33  13  11 

may  conduct  examination  in  trials 34  14  4 

has  power  to  convene  his  Lodge 37  16  3 

to  have  charge  of  dispensation  or  charter. 37  16  6 

cannot  resign 38  16  14 

signature  not  necessary  to  Minutes 39  16  16 

duty  on  decease  of  a  member,  &c 39  16  20 

to  appoint  committee  on  Orphan  Asylum 43  44  3 


144  Index- 

Page.  Art.  Sec, 
Membership  in  Lodges  — 

petition  for,  how  acted  on 26  10  3 

what   constitutes 26  10  4 

qualifications  for 27  10  8 

dimit  to  accompany  petition 27  10  9 

membership  in  two  Lodges  forbidden   27  10  10 

Minutes  of  Lodges — 

Grand  Lecturers  to  examine . 16  1  22 

reading,  and  approval   of 38  16  16 

Moneys  of  Grand  Lodge  — 

Grand  Secretary  to  receive  and  pay  to  Grand  Treas- 
urer   17  2  2 

how  paid  from  Grand  Treasury 17  2  3 

New  Trials — 

how  granted ......  31-32  13  6 

Non-Affiliated  Masons — 

excluded  from  rights  and  privileg-es 40-41  18  1 

may  visit  Lodge  once,  (proviso) 41  18  1 

names  not  to  be  published  in  Proceedings 41  18  % 

dimit  forfeits  all  masonic  rights,  (proviso) 41  18  3 

Non-Payment  of  Dues- 
Lodge  may  exclude  members  for,  &c 33  13  12 

Non-Residents — 

cannot  petition   for   degrees   ...    .,,...  26-27  10  5 

Lodge  has  not  jurisdiction   over 26-27  10  5 

Offences  Punishable — (Specially  Mentioned) — 

immoral  or  unmasonic  conduct 30  13  1 

improper  influences  to  secure  acquisitions  to  the  Fra- 
ternity   31  13  2 

profanity  and  drunkenness 31  13  3 

disobeying  legal  summons,  (proviso) 33  13  9 

disobeying  legal  summons   33  13  11 

Officers  of  Lodges — 

election  and  installation  of 38  16  11 

Master  must  have  been  a  Warden 38  16  12 

may  be  installed  by  proxy 38  16  13 

installed  officers  cannot  resign .....    38  16  14 

Order  of  Business  in  Grand  Lodge 20    5  1 

Orphan  Asylum — 

establishment  of  (at  Oxford) 43  1 


Index.  lJf5 

Page.  Art.    Sec. 
Orphan  Asylum  - 

Branch'  Asylum 43  2 

manner  of  raising  funds  for 43-44  3 

Superintendent  to  make  Annual  Reports   44  4 

government  of  Asylums 44  5 

Parliamentary  Rules — 

to  be  observed 21  5       9 

Passing  Candidates  — 

Proficiency  in  E.  A.  degree  before 26  10       3 

ballot  may  be  taken  on     28  10     13 

Past  Grand  Masters — 

members  of  Grand  Lodge 5  1       1 

portraits  of  to  be  procured 14  1     10 

Past  Master's  Degree — 

not  essential  to  Master  in  presiding  over  Lodge   ...  30  12       8 
degree  in  Chapter  does  not  confer  rights  in   Blue 

Lodge ■ 30  12       8 

Petitions  for  Charters  and  Dispensations — 

required,  and  how  made 10  10 

for  dispensations,  how   made 22  6       1 

for  restoration  of   charter 25  9       1 

for  restoration  after  suspension  or  expulsion 35  15       1 

for  restoration  after  suspension  or  expulsion   ......  36  15       2 

Petitions  for  Degrees  or  Membership  — 

qualifications   of  candidates 26  10       1 

qualifications  for  degrees. 26  10       2 

how  disposed  of 26  10       3 

sojourners  and  non-residents   cannot  petition   26  10       5 

qualifications  for   membership 27  10       8 

to  be  accompanied  by  dimits 27  10       9 

how  petition   may  be  withdrawn 27  10       7 

rejected  petition  excluded  for  one  year 28  10     12 

twelve  months  residence  required  before  petitioning  27  10       5 
(See  Balloting.) 

Physical  Qualifications  of  Candidates  — 

qualifications  necessary  to  petition 26  10       1 

qualifications  for  advancement 26  10       2 

Powers — 

of  Grand  Lodge 10  9    1,2 

of  Grand   Master 7  2       6 

of  Lodges 36  16       1 


13 

1 

15 

1 

16 

3 

17 

1,2 

14@  Index. 

Page.  Art.    Sec. 
Powers — 

of  Lodges,  (to  try  masons) 30 

to  restore  after  suspension  or  expulsion   35 

of  Master  of  Lodge 37 

of  Master  of  Lodge 40 

Previous  Question — 

not  admissible  in    Grand   Lodge 21       5       9 

Private  Secretary  to  Grand  Master — 

appointment  and   compensation  of 13       1     14 

Proceedings  of  Grand  Lodge  — 

when  published  and  how  distributed 41-42  20       1 

to  be  read  in  Lodges 42     20       2 

extra   copies,  how  obtained   42     20       3 

Processions — 

regalia  and   dress   in 39     16     18 

funerals  or  burials,  dress  to   be  observed 39  16 19,20 

Profanity  and  Drunkenness — 

cause  for    rejection 26     10       2 

masonic    crimes 31     13       3 

punishable  offences 31     13       3 

Proficiency  — 

of  proposed  officers  for  new  Lodges  required 22       6       3 

of  candidates  before   advancement 26     10       3 

Proxy — 

of  representatives  in  Grand  Lodge 5       1       1 

of  representatives  in  Grand  Lodge 5       1       2 

cannot  transfer  authority  without  permission 18       4       4 

may  vote,   how 18       4       5 

must  have  written  credentials 18       4       6 

officers  of  Grand  Lodge  may  be  installed   by 6       2       3 

officers  of  Lodges  may  be  installed  by 38     16     13 

Qualifications — 

of  proposed  officers  for  new  Lodges   22       6       3 

of  candidates  for  degrees 26     10       1 

of  candidates  for  advancement 26     10       2 

for  membership 37     10       8 

proficiency  a  qualification  for  advancement ........  26     10       3 

Quorum — 

of   Grand  Lodge 18       4       2 

of  Subordinate  Lodges 36     16       1 


Index.  147 

Page.  Art.  Sec. 
Raising  Candidates  — 

proficiency  in  F.  C.  degree  necessary  before 26  10  3 

raising  a  candidate  does  not  constitute  membership  26  10  4 

ballot  may  be  taken  on 28  10  13 

Recommendations — 

for  new  Lodges   10  10 

for  new  Lodges „ 22  6  1 

Refreshments  — 

use  of   forbidden 20  4  13 

use  of   forbidden 37  16  8 

Rejections 

names  of  rejected  applicants  not  to  be  published  24  7 
Removal  of  Lodges  — 

proceedings  in 24-25    8 

Reports  — 

of  Grand  Treasurer 13-14    1  6 

of  Grand  Secretary 15  1  14 

of  Grand    Secretary,  (special) 32  13  7 

of  Grand  Lecturers,  (special) . , 16  1  22 

of  committee  on  credentials  18  4  8 

of  committees  of  Grand  Lodge 19  4  8 

on  Grand  Master's  Address  . 19  4  9 

of  committees,  how  made ...    22  5  11 

of  committee  on  Orphan  Asylum      43-44  3 

of  Superintendent  of  Orphan  Asylum 44  4 

Representatives  to  Grand  Lodge  — 

who  compose    .... .....  5  1  1 

who    compose   6  1  4 

may  appoint  proxy .....  5  1  2 

number  of  votes  of 5  1  2 

number  of  votes  and  manner  of  voting 18  4  5 

of  three  Lodges  constitute  quorum  in  Grand  Lodge  18  4  2 

shall  represent  only  three  Lodges  each 18  4  3 

credentials  of 18  4  6 

leave  of  absence,  how  obtained 20  4  11 

transportation  of  to  and  from  Grand  Lodge 16  1  18 

Representation  in  Grand  Bodies — 

Grand  Master  authorized  to   appoint 42  21 

Reprimand — 

grade  of   punishment 30  13  1 


15 

1 

15 

g 

15 

3 

15 

4 

4 

8 

7 

7 

2 

1 

3 

1 

2 

2 

6 

1 

6 

6 

2 

3 

148  Index. 

Page.  Art.    Sec. 
Restoration  of  Suspended  or  Expelled  Masons- 
how  restorations  may  take  place   ...    35 

petition    for,  how  made  and  acted  on .  .  36 

after  definite    suspension    36 

notice  of,  how   published 36 

Returns  of  Lodges  to  Grand  Lodge — 

committee  on,  (paragraph   3d )    19 

how  made 24 

what  they  shall  contain 24 

Revenues  of  Grand  Lodge  — 

annual  dues  of  Lodges   . . 16 

price  of   diplomas 17 

to  be  paid  to  Grand  Secretary 17 

price  of  dispensation 22 

price  of  charter 23 

how  moneys  to  be  paid  from  Grand  Treasury 17 

Rules  Regulating  Business  of  Grand  Lodge  — 

order  of  business 20       5       1 

sections  indicating  duties  of  members  and  committees  20-22    5  2-11 
Rules  for  Government  of  Lodges  in  Trials  — 

charges,  how  made   34 

accused  to  be  served  with  copy 34 

special  communications  for  trials 34 

counsel 34 

evidence,  how   taken 34 

examination,  how  conducted, 34 

argument  of   defence 35 

conviction  and  punishment,  how  determined 35 

proceedings   regulating   appeals 35 

Schools  Under  Management  of  Lodges — 

committee  on,  (paragraph  6th) 19       4       8 

Secretary  of  Subordinate  Lodge — 

to  attest  credentials  of  Representatives 18       4       6 

to  attach  Lodge  seal  to  documents   23       6       6 

to  certify  annual  returns 24       7 

to  furnish    accused   mason    with    certified    copy   of 

charges,    &c , 31     13       4 

to  furnish  accused  with  copy  of  proceedings   if   re- 
quired   " 35     14       7 

to  send  transcript  of  trial  to  Grand  Lodge 31     13       5 

to  transmit  notice  of  suspension,  &c  ,  to  Grand  Sec- 
retary       32     13       7 


14 

1 

14 

1 

14 

2 

14 

3 

14 

3 

14 

4 

14 

5 

14 

6 

14 

7 

Index.  149 

Page.  Art.  Sec. 
Secretary  of  Subordinate  Lodge — 

to  attest  summons 33  13  10 

to  transmit  notice  of  restoration  to  Grand  Secretary  36  15  4 

to  attest  the  Minutes  of  the  Lodge 39  16  16 

to  certify  proceedings  against  Master  of  Lodge   ...  40  17  2 
receipt  of  for  dues  to  be  given  before  dimit  is  granted  41  18  3 
to  furnish  certificate   to   widow   or   orphans    of   de- 
ceased  masons   41  19 

Summons  — 

disobeying  legal    summons,  punishable 32-33  13  9 

disobeying  legal  summons,  punishable 33  13  11 

legal  summons 33  13  10 

Suspension  — 

grade  of   punishment 30  13  1 

vote    necessary   for 31  13  4 

notice  of  to  be  sent  to  Grand  Secretary 32  13  7 

fee  to  accompany  notice 32  13  7 

Grand  Secretary  to  publish  in  quarterly  circular..  ..  32  13  7 

Grand  Secretary  to  report  cases  of  to  Grand   Lodge  32  13  7 

restoration  after 35  15  1 

restoration  after  definite  suspension 36  15  3 

Trials  and  Punishments — 

masons  may  be  arraigned  on  charges 30  13  1 

grades  of  punishment   30  13  1 

improper  influences  to  secure  acquisitions  to  the  Fra- 
ternity  31  13  2 

profanity   and    drunkenness 31  13  3 

accused  to  be  notified  31  13  4 

trial  ex-parte 31  13  4 

transcript  of  trial  to  be  sent  to  Grand  Lodge 31  13  5 

new    trials 31  13  6 

minor   offences,  how   punishable 32  33  13  9 

disobeying   summons 33  13  9,11 

disclosing  Lodge  transactions 33  13  9 

exclusion  for  non-payment  of  dues 33  13  12 

effect  of  expulsion  by  Chapter,  Council,  &c. 33  13  13 

See  "  Rules  for  the  Government  of  Lodges  in  Trial.'' 

Unfinished  Business — 

committee  on,  (paragraph  7th)   19  4  8 

Uniformity  of  Work- 
to  be  observed 29  12  2 

20 


150  Index. 

Page.  Art.    See. 
Visitation  to  Subordinate  Lodges — 

regulation  concerning 39  16     22 

at  trials  restricted 34  14       2 

non-affiliated  masons  may  visit  Lodge  once 41  18       3 

Visitors  to  Grand  Lodge — 

how  admitted 20  4     12 

Wardens  of  Lodges — 

members  of  Grand  Lodge 5  1       1 

skill  and  proficiency  of  Wardens  of  new  Lodges  cer- 
tified     ....  22  6       3 

duties  in  reference  to  removal  of   Lodges 24-25    8 

duties  of  respecting  obedience  of   members  to  sum- 
mons  33  13     11 

Widows  and  Orphans — 

certificate  to  be  furnished,   by  whom  and  when. ...  41  19 

Work- 

Grand  Lecturers  to  instruct  Lodges  in   9  7 

Grand  Lecturers  to    exemplify 9  7 

Grand  Lecturers  to  exemplify    16  1     21 

uniformity  to  be  observed   29  12       2 

title  of :    29  12       3 

use  of  cypher  forbidden 30  12       6 

Year,  Fiscal  of  Grand  Lodge s 24  7 


INDEX 


OLD  CHARGES  AND  REGULATIONS. 


Page.  Art. 

Amendments  to  Regulations 62  39 

Behaviour — 

in  the  Lodge,  (Sec.  1) 48  6 

after  Lodge  is  closed,  (Sec.   2) ,  48  6 

towards  brethren,  (Sec.  3) 49  6 

towards  strangers,  (Sec.  4)   ..... 49  6 

at  home,  &c,  (Sec.    5) ..... 49  6 

towards  a  strange  brother,  (Sec.  6) 49  6 

By-Laws  and  Records — 

how  kept 52  3 

Charity  Fund 52  6 

Civil  Magistrates,    Supreme  and    Subordinate 45  2 

Clandestine  Lodges 53  8 

Deputy  Grand  Master — 

authority  of  . . 51  1 

duties  of.. 56  16 

appointment  of  ]^o  tern. 56  18 

ineligible  as  Master  or  Warden  of  a  Lodge 56  17 

visitations  by 57  20 

appointment  by  Grand  Master 61  35 

Feasts — 

days  of 57  22 

appointment  of 57  22 

preparation  for 58  23 

funds  for........... 58  24 

tilers  at 59  25 

door-keepers  at , 59  26 

guests  and  service  at  table 59  27 


152  Index. 

Page.  Art. 
Feasts- 
appeals  received  at    59  28 

decorum  at - 59  28 

nomination  of  Grand  Master  at 60  29 

consultation  at , GO  30 

formation  of  Grand  Lodge   at    ... 60  31 

addresses  at  . . 62  37 

addresses  at 62  38 

God  and  Religion 45  1 

Grand  Lodge- 
how  formed  and   regulated 54  12 

general  business  of 54-55  13 

who  to  preside  in 55  14 

stations  in,  how  supplied 56  15 

formed  at  feasts 60  31 

Grand  Master- 
authority  of . . 51  1 

arraignment  and  trial  of 57  19 

visitations  by 57  20 

death  of,  successor  to 57  21 

nomination  of     60  29 

election  and  salutation  of 60  32 

election  of  61  33 

election  of 61  34 

to  appoint  officers 61  35 

installed   by  proxy c 61  36 

address  by 62  38 

"  Holy  Days,"  (paragraph    1) 47  5 

Initiations  — 

qualification  for  (paragraph  1) 46  3 

limit  to  52  4 

age  at   52  4 

Installation — 

Grand  Master  instal'ed  by  proxy     61  36 

Lodges — 

definition  of  Lodge 46  3 

who  to  be  admitted  in 46  3 

establishment  of 53  8 

affiliation  with 53  8 


Index.  153 

Page.  Art 
Lodges  - 

clandestine ...    53       8 

right  to  instruct  officers    and    representatives 53     10 

Management  of  the  Craft  in  Working  — 

regulations  concerning    47       5 

Masters — 

qualifications  for,  and  proficiency  of 46       4 

powers  of   ...    51       2 

Membership  — 

qualifications  for 46       3 

monthly  notice   before    admission,  &c 52       5 

New  Lodges  — 

establishment  of 53       8 

Non-Affiliation     4(3        3 

Non-Affiliation 53        8 

Obedience  — 

to  civil  magistrates 46       2 

to  charges,  &c 50 

to  laws,  constitution,  &c 53       7 

Objection  — 

right  of 52       6 

Officers  of  Grand  Lodge- 
ineligible  as  Masters  and  Wardens  of  Lodges 56     17 

O  Id  Charges 45-50 

obedience  to 50 

brotherly  love,    forbearance,  protection,  &c,  enjoined..  50 

Physical  Qualifications  of  Candidates 4G       4 

Qualifications  — 

of  candidates,  or  membership    46    3,4 

Regulations  — 

amendment  of 62     39 

Representatives  to  Grand  Lodge 53      10 

Supplanting  a  Brother,  (paragraph  5) 47        5 

Unanimous  Consent — 

necessarv  to  admission     .  52       6 


154  Index. 

Page.  Art. 
Unmasonic  Conduct — 

punishment  of .. .' 53  9 

Uniformity  in  Work  and  Usage 53  11 

Wardens — 

qualifications  for  and  proficiency  of  46  4 

ineligible  as  Master  or  Warden  of   Lodge   56  17 

visitations  by 57  20 

Work- 
diligence  in 47  5 

uniformity 53  11 


INDEX 


FORMS,    CEREMONIES,    &C. 


Page. 

Uniform  Code  of  By-Laws 69-18 

Ceremonies. 
Constitution  and  Dedication  of  New  Lodges,  with   Installa- 
tion of  Lodge  Officers „ 79-91 

Dedication  of  Masonic   Halls 92-96 

Laying  Foundation  Stones  of  Public  Structures 96-102 

Funerals . . ...... 102-109 

Installation  of  Grant!  Officers 111-120 

Forms. 

No.     1.— Petition  for  Dispensation  for   NewT  Lodge 121-122 

2.— Petition  for  a  Charter 122-123 

3. — Petition  for  Degrees 123 

4. — Petition    for  Membership 123-124 

5.— Application  for  a  Dimit 124 

6.—  Dimit 124 

7. — Petition  for   Restoration 125 

8. — Certificate  for  Widow    or   Orphan    of   Deceased 

Mason 125 

9. — Notice  of  Suspension  or  Expulsion 126 

10. — Notice  of  Restoration 126 

11. — Notice  of  Restoration — Non-Affiliated    Mason..  127 
12. — Abstract  of  Proceedings  of   Subordinate  Lodges 

in  Trials  ....   ..... .....  127-129 

Prayer  at  Opening  or  Closing  a  Lodge 131  132 

Charge  at  Closing  a  Lodge 132 

Prayer  at  Opening  the    Grand   Lodge 132 

Act  of  Incorporation  of  the  Grand    Lodge 133 


